TO  THE 

READING  AND   STUDY 


HOLY  SCRIPTURES. 


# 


•A 


GUIDE 

TO  THE 

READING  AND  STUDY 

OF  THE 

#o!p  &tti9tutt#, 


BY 


AUGUSTUS  HERMAN  FRANCK,  A.  M. 

:  ATE  PROFESSOR  OF   DIYTNITY,   AND   OF   THE   GREEK   AND  ORI- 
ENTAL LANGUAGES,  IN  THE  UNIVERSITY  OF  HALLE, 


Translated  from  tlie  LatirL, 

AND  AUGMENTED  WITH 
NOTES  ; 

Distinct  Notations  of  some  of  (be  best  editions  of  the 

GREEK    AND    HEBREW    SCRIPTURES; 

And  a  copious  but  select  List  of  the 

MOST  VALUABLE  COMMENTARIES  AND  BIBLICAL  WORKS. 

EXHIBITING  ALSO  ON  EACH  BOOK 

THE  CRITICISMS  OF  ABLE  DIVINES: 


By  WILLIAM  JAQUES,  A.  M. 


^  "  Franek's  Gr,ide  deserves  to  be  often  read.   It  contains  the  best  Rules 
for  studying  the  Scriptures  that  I  ever  remember  to  have  seen."    Dfr. 

}>oddridge.— Lectures  on  Preaching. 


FIB**  AMERICAN,  FROM  THE  LAST  LONDON  EDITION- 


PHILADELPHIA: 

BLISHED  BY  DAVID  IIOGAN, 

JVV  255,  Market  Stt 


j  <3° i 


/ 


**5^f 


THE  CONTENTS. 


PAGE. 

The  Translator's  Preface      .     .    .     .  vii 

Introduction    . 17 

Of  Reading  as  it  respects  the  Letter 

of  the  Scriptures 19 

Grammatical  Reading    ......  ib. 

Historical  Reading 43 

Analytical  Reading 53 

Of  Reading  as  it  respects  the  SriRiT  of 

the  Word *  63 

Expository  Reading ib. 

Doctrinal  Reading 87 

Inferential  Reading       92 

Practical  Reading Ill 

Of  the  Order  of  Studying  the  Scriptures  117 

Appendix 121 

Treatise  on  the  Affections       .     .     .  123 
Analysis  of  the  Epistle  to  the  Ephe- 

sians 149 

Analytical  Introduction  to  the  Epistle 

to  the  Colossians        .     .     .     •     .  161 

THa  Translator's  Notes 179 

\  2 


THE 


TRANSLATOR'S  PREFACE. 


Of  all  the  volumes  that  have  engaged  the 
attention  of  the  human  mind,  there  is  no 
point  of  view  in  which  the  Bible  is  not  infi- 
nitely pre-eminent.  Whatever  constitutes  ex- 
cellency in  writing,  whatever  has  diffused  a 
partial  beauty  over  the  productions  of  men, 
whatever  conspires  to  expand  the  intellect  or 
interest  of  the  heart,  shines  forth  in  the  sa- 
cred pages  with  transcendent  lustre;  while  it 
commends  itself  to  our  notice  by  another,  a 
triumphant  consideration, — "  it  is  able  to 
make  us  wise  unto  Salvation." — In  the  prac- 
tical study  of  this  blessed  Book,  thousands 
have  found  an  exhaustless  source  of  spiritual 
and  intellectual  enjoyment ;  and  they  have 
invariably  been  compelled  to  acknowledge 


\m  THE  TKANb),  A.  1 OR*S  PftEF  A 

and  admire,  with  an  eminent  divine,*  that 
««  the  most  learned,  acute,  and  diligent  stu- 
dent, cannot,  in  the  longest  life,  obtain  an 
entire  knowledge  of  this  one  Volume ;  be- 
cause, the  more  deeply  he  works  the  mine, 
the  richer  and  more  abundant  he  finds  the 
ore.'' — To  encourage  and  assist  in  the  pro- 
secution of  this  sublime  study,  is  the  imme- 
diate object  of  the  present  work.  It  is  the 
last  result  of  deep  piety,  and  profound  learn- 
ing, united  in  a  man  who  was  peculiarly 
called  to  the  study  of  Holy  Writ ;  and  « it 
contains,"  says  Dr.  Doddridge,  (no  common 
judge,)—"  the  best  rules  for  studying  the 
Scriptures,  that  I  evkr  remember  to  have 
seen.'5 

The  publication  of  a  treatise  so  highly  and 
yet  so  worthily  recommended,  cannot  but  be 
gratifying  to  the  biblical  student ;  and,  in  the 
present  state  of  sacred  literature,  it  promises 
to  be  as  seasonable  as  beneficial.  It  certainly 
is  a  culpable  deficiency,  that,  at  a  time  when 
so  much  is  done  so  well  to  elucidate  Scripture 
in  the  way  of  Comment  and  Exposition,  there 
is  scarcely  one  popular  work,  whose  immedi- 

•  Th<?  P<*r.  Thomas  Scotl 


T#E  TRANSLATORS  PREFACE 

ate  object  is  to  excite  and  assist  learners,  to 
study  the  sacred  text  for  themselves.  Whe- 
ther this  fact  be  not  indicative  of  one  more 
serious,  and  whether  the  lively  Oracles  be  not 
studied  too  generally  through  the  medium  of 
human  expositions,  the  reader  must  deter- 
mine for  himself:  but  none  surely  will  con- 
tend, that  such  a  practice  is  not  a  solecism 
iu  divinity  $  and  none  who  reflect,  with  Mr. 
Locke,  that  "  the  understanding  is  always 
desirous  to  obtain  presently  the  knowledge  it 
is  about,  and  then  set  upon  some  new  inquiry; 
and,  on  that  account,  often  contents  itself  with 
improper  ways  of  search  ;M  will  hesitate  to 
admit,  as  a  consequence,  that  the  young  di- 
vine is  eminently  exposed  to  commit  this  er- 
ror: and  that  our  author's  work,  independ- 
ently of  its  internal  claims,  makes  a  valid  ap- 
peal to  the  reader's  attention,  as  a  seasonable 
production.^ 

The  importance  of  cultivating  an  acquain- 
tance with  the  sacred  languages,  will  doubt- 
less  render  the   Chapter   on    Grammatical 

*  See  the  latter  part  of  a  Review  of  the  First  Edition  of 
this  Work,  in  the  Christian  Observer  for  Dec.  1814,  where 
the  above  observation  is  strongly  confirmed. 


3l  f  HE  Tit 

Reading  peculiarly  useful  and  acceptable ; 
as  it  furnishes  a  complete  series  of  excellent 
rules  for  the  attainment  of  the  Greek,  He- 
brew, and  Chaldee  :  and  it  is  hoped  that,  by 
the  perusal  of  it,  many  will  be  incited  to  stu- 
dy the  Original  Scripture*.  The  mode  of 
teaching  which  our  author  so  justly  censures 
as  discouraging  and  tedious,  and  which  en- 
joins a  considerable  knowledge,  of  the  gram- 
mar, before  the  language  it&elf  can  be  at- 
tempted, has  given  to  the  stitfly,  a  most  for- 
bidding aspect :  but,  if  the  unlearned  reader 
inspect  the  Professor's  plai,  he  will  find  lit- 
tle to  deter,  and  much  to  encourage  him. 
Should  therefore  any  who  have  acquired  their 
skill  in  languages  by  different  methods,  con- 
sider this  too  easy  to  be  true,  and  advise  the 
unwary  student  « to  turn  out  of  his  way  in  a 
well-beaten  track  ;"  it  will  be  fair  to  remem- 
ber that  our  authors  rules  are  not  only  the 
professed  fruit  of  practical  inquiry,  but  that 
they  evince  their  worth  by  the  success  with 
which  they  were  attended,  when  he  occupied 
the  chair  of  Professor  of  Languages  in  the 
University  of  Halle. 

When   it  is  considered  with  what  facility 
this  inestimable  attainment  mav  be  made,  awl 


I  HE  TRANSLATOR'S  PREFACE, 

the  happy  consequences  which,  in  every  view, 
must  result  from  it,  one  cannot  but  impute  it 
to  ignorance  or  to  culpable  indifference,  that 
it  does  not  more  generally  constitute  an  ob- 
ject of  attention  in  the  education  of  youth. 
The  period  usually  allotted  to  the  acquisition 
of  knowledge,  would  afford  ample  opportuni- 
ties for  this  study,  without  interfering  with 
other  duties.  That  those  indeed  with  whom 
matchless  excellencies  cannot  atone  for  evan- 
gelical truth,  should  treat  the  Word  of  God 
with  neglect,  is  a  fact  at  which  we  have  long 
ceased  to  wonder ;  but  the  Christian  parent 
should  interpose  with  regard  to  his  own  off- 
spring, and  instead  of  appropriating  their 
time  to  difficult  languages  and  sciences,  in 
which  nothing  but  a  course  of  application 
unusually  long,  can  render  them  even  tolera- 
able  proficients,  he  should  consecrate  at  least 
a  part,  to  the  easier  and  more  important  stu- 
dy of  the  Original  Scriptures.5'* 

*  "  That  time  and  pains  which  youth  commonly  spend  on 
a  language  of  such  real  difficulty  as  the  Latin,  might,  with  the 
assistance  of  proper  Grammars  and  Lexicons,  be  abundantly 
sufficient  for  their  instruction  in  the  Hebrew  of  the  Old,  and 
in  the  Greek  of  the  New  Testament :  and  might  enable  them 
to  read  in  their  original  purity,  those  Divine  Writings,  on 


rHfc  TRANSLATOR'S  PREFACE': 

It  is  possible  that  the  superficial  reader, 
taking  his  estimate  of  the  following  treatise 
in  the  abstract,  and  not  in  its  practical  ap- 
plication, may  deem  it  deficient  in  that  spiri- 
tuality which  is  so  eminently  conspicuous  in 
the  Professor's  other  works  :  but,  besides 
that  the  opinions  of  Doctors  Doddridge  and 
Allix,  might  well  induce  "the  many,"  to  he- 
sitate; every  judicious  person  must  be  satis- 
fied that  the  contrary  is  the  fact.  It  is  suffi- 
cient to  say  with  respect  to  Part  I.  which 
treats  of  the  Letter  of  Scripture,  that  this  is  al- 
ways considered  in  subordination  to  the  Spirit 
of  the  Word  ;  and  that  the  student  is  continu- 
ally admonished  to  devotefto  it  no  more  of  his 
time  than  it  absolutely  requires:  and  a  refe- 
rence to  the  concluding  chapter  of  the  work — 
«f  On  the  order  of  studying  the  Holy  Scrip- 
tures,"—will  show  that  an  attention  to  the 
Letter  fwhich  naturally  comes  first  to  be  no- 
ticed) is,  at  no  time,  to  preclude  the  study  of 
the  Sacred  Volume  in  a  spiritual  way.  The 
Second  Part  certainly  is  replete  with  spiri- 

vhieh  their  profession  as  Protestants,  and  what  is  yet  of 
greater  moment,  their  faith  and  hope  as  Christians,  are  found- 
cd."— Pahkhubst. 


THE  TRANSLATOR'S  PREFACE.  x\a 

tuality.  They,  however,  who  expect  that  a 
series  of  Rules  will,  in  thefnselves,  be  fraught 
with  unction,  do  not  think  correctly.  We 
might,  with  more  appearance  of  reason,  ob- 
ject to  an  excellent  book  of  Logic,  which 
aids  us  in  our  inquiries  after  truth,  that  its 
abstract  rules  are  meagre  and  jejune  ;  than 
condemn  the  present  work  (which  would  lead 
our  minds  to  the  beatific  vision  of  truths  di- 
vine,) on  the  grounds  in  question. 

It  now  remains,  to  offer  a  few  remarks  in 
reference  to  those  points  for  which  the  Editor 
is  more  immediately  responsible.  In  giving 
a  Translation  of  the  work,  it  has,  of  course, 
been  his  object  to  apprehend  fully  his  author's 
ideas,  and  deliver  them  in  perspicuous,  appro- 
priate language.  Independently,  however, 
of  this,  a  part  of  his  time  and  attention  has 
been  employed  in  divesting  the  Treatise  of 
its  scholastic  stiffness,  without  sacrificing 
the  advantages  of  methodical  arrangement; 
and  in  simplifying,  as  much  as  possible,  the 
technical  phrases  which  abound  in  the  origi- 
nal work. 

The  most  material  part  of  his  labour,  how- 
ever, will  be  found  in  the  Notes.    It  was  im- 


siv  THE  TRANSLATOR'S  PREFACE. 

mediately  obvious,  that  these  were  highly 
necessary,  because  the  works  which  our  Au- 
thor has  recommended,  have,  in  many  in- 
stances, become  scarce,  and,  in  others,  are 
superseded.  Besides,  it  «  is  of  vast  advan- 
tage," says  Dr.  Watts,  «  for  the  improve- 
ment of  knowledge  and  saving  time,  for  a 
young  man  to  have  the  most  proper  books 
for  his  reading  recommended  5"  nor  is  it  a 
matter  of  inferior  consequence  to  theological 
students,  to  have  correct  Editions  of  works 
generally,  and  of  the  Original  Scriptures  in 
particular,  ascertained. — To  afford  informa- 
tion on  these  important  points  is  the  chief 
scope  of  the  Translator's  Notes ;  and  in  or- 
der to  render  the  student's  path  certain  as  well 
as  easy,  almost  every  book  has  annexed  to  it, 
the  name,  and  frequently  the  criticisms  of 
some  standard  writer  who  has  recommended 
it.  To  enumerate  the  various  works  which 
have  been  consulted  on  the  occasion,  must  be 
unnecessary ;  the  reader  will  however  see  that 
to  Dr.  Doddridge's  Preaching  Lectures,  Dr. 
Williams'  Appendix  to  the  Christian  Preach- 
er, and  to  Dr.  A.  Clarke's  Preface  to*  his 
Bible,  his  Bibliographical  Dictionary,  and 


THE  TRANSLATOR'S  PREFACE,  xv 

Concise    View,    the    Notes    are    much   in- 
debted. 

In  conclusion,  the  Translator  would  ob- 
serve, that  he  has  laboured  to  make  the  work 
as  complete  and  useful  as  possible ;  though 
he  does  not  presume  to  hope,  but  that,  in  se- 
veral respects,  he  may  appear  deficient, 
"  Whoever  has  edited  a  work,  well  knows 
how  many  causes  of  error  may  operate,  not 
only  independently  of  himself,  but  in  spite  of 
all  his  exertions, " 

London, 
May,  1815. 


%    <®U3®>® 


READING  AjYI)   STUDY 


HOLY  SCRIPTURES. 


INTRODUCTION. 

JL  HE  methods  which  those  who  read  the 
Scriptures  prescribe  to  themselves,  and 
the  motives  by  whicli  they  are  influenced,  are 
equally  various :  hence,  as  they  do  not  adopt 
the  same  measures,  so  they  derive  not  from 
their  labours  the  same  advantages.  All  Read- 
ing, however,  respects  either  the  letter  or 
the  spirit  of  the  Inspired  Writings.  Sepa- 
rate from  the  latter,  the  former  is  empty  and 
inconsistent;  but  when  both  are  united,  the 
study  of  Divinity  is  rendered  complete. 


18  INTRODUCTION", 

Reading,  as  it  respects  the  letter  of 
Scripture,  divides  itself  into  three  branches : 
Grammatical,  Historical,  and  Analy- 
tical. As  it  respects  the  spirit  of  the 
Word,  it  comprehends  four:  Expository, 
Doctrinal,  Inferential,  and  Practi- 
cal. 


PART  I. 


OF  READING,    AS   IT    RESPECTS    THE  LETTER  OF  THE 
SCRIPTURES. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Or  GRAMMATICAL  READING. 


Grammatical  Reading  relates  to  the  Greek  of 
the  New,  and  the  Hebrew  and  Chaldee  of  the  Old 
Testament;  and  requires  that  their  Etymology,  Sig- 
nification, Syntax,  and  Idiom,  be  fully  understood:  lest 
the  false  senses  which  are  consequent  on  translations, 
and  on  an  imperfect  acquaintance  with  these  languages, 
should  be  incautiously  attributed  to  the  Inspired  Pen- 
men. 

This  branch  of  Scripture  Reading  embraces  four 
things. 

I.  The  Analysis  and  Grammatical  Interpretation 
of  Greek  and  Hebrew  Words:  connected  with  which 
are  Etymology,  Signification,  and,  in  part,  Syntax. 

71.  An  accurate  Examination  of  Idiom. 


20  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

III.  A  Knowledge  of  the  Chaldee  Tongue. 

IV.  An  Acquaintance  with  the  Rabbinical  Wri- 
tings; which  are  considered  to  follow  more  immediate- 
ly the  Grammatical  Reading  of  the  Scriptures. 


I.   Of  Analysis  and  Interpretation. 

In  treating  of  the  Anal)rsis  and  Grammatical  Inter- 
pretation of  words,  it  will  be  requisite  to  notice  dis- 
tinctly the  Greek  and  Hebrew  tongues. 

The  Greek  language,  with  us,  is  not  to  be  studied 
as  it  would  be  by  the  professed  Grammarian ;  but  sim- 
ply with  a  view  to  Divinity  and  the  New  Testament: 
though,  certainly,  a  student  may  profitably  cultivate  a 
larger  acquaintance  with  it  afterwards,  provided  the 
Hebrew  and  other  necessary  studies  be  not  neglected. 
So  much  of  it,  however,  as  is  really  essential,  may  be  ea- 
sily acquiredby  attending  to  the  following  observations : 

The  first  seven  chapters  of  St.  Matthew's  gospel 
should  be  read  with  an  accurate,  collated  version  (as 
that  of  Beza  or  Erasmus,)  until  the  learner  be  able 
to  translate  the  Greek  text,  without  difficulty,  into  his 
own,  or  any  other  language-  (a)  He  ought  not,  how- 
ever, in  this,  his  first  attempt,  to  be  anxious  to  com- 
prehend all  the  principles  of  grammatical  construc- 
tion: nor,  on  account  of  partial  ignorance  in  this  par- 
ticular, should  he  forego  the  improvement  which  must 


GRAMMATICAL  HEADING.  21 

ever  attend  a  frequent  translating  of  the  text.  Yet, 
in  order  that  no  delay  may  be  occasioned  through  a 
want  of  some  acquaintance  with  the  grammar,  it  will 
be  proper  to  read  and  review  frequently,  the  para- 
digms of  the  declensions  and  conjugations,  with  other 
grammatical  rudiments;  and  thus  gradually  impress 
them  on  the  mind.  When  the  study  of  these  accom- 
panies a  perusal  of  the  seven  chapters,  theory  and 
practice  mutually  assist  each  other.  It  remains,  not- 
withstanding, to  devote  more  time  to  the  latter,  than 
to  the  former;  to  reading  the  New  Testament,  than 
to  studying  the  grammar.  Practice  may  prove  a  sub- 
stitute for  theory;  but  theory  can  avail  nothing  with- 
out practice. 

When  the  seven  chapters  in  question  have  been 
thoroughly  studied,  and  the  requisite  paradigms  are 
familiarized,  the  New  Testament  should  be  read 
through  in  its  natural  order,  with  a  collated  and  ac- 
curate version:  and  the  signification  and  grammatical 
nature  of  words,  may  be  sought  in  Pasor's  larger  Lex- 
icon, (b)  The  student  should  impress  the  significa- 
tions of  words  on  his  memory,  by  writing  them,  or  by 
repeatedly  reading  the  chapters;  accordingly  as  he 
may  deem  either  method  better  adapted  to  his  genius. 
I  have,  however,  uniformly  observed,  that  \o  ivrite 
the  significations  of  words,  is  the  more  successful 
practice. 

Students  should  remark,  that  this  reading  is  not  to 


22  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

be  prosecuted  in  an  irregular  and  inconstant  manner. 
Other  pursuits  must  submit  to  a  temporary,  or  at  least, 
partial  cessation,  lest  they  obliterate  what  has  been 
learned;  and  lest  a  distaste  for  this  should  be  ac- 
quired; when  long  continued  labours  are  not  accom- 
panied with  that  improvement,  with  which  they  would, 
in  the  course  of  a  few  weeks,  be  otherwise  attended. 
Words  which  are  continually  recurring  under  different 
forms  and  various  combinations,  are,  without  much 
difficulty,  impressed  on  the  mind.  It  is  therefore  a 
judicious  distribution  of  time,  to  allot  a  stated  period 
to  the  study  of  a  language,  and  remit,  during  that 
term,  every  other  pursuit. — It  is  proper  to  remark 
here,  that  every  one  should  take  into  consideration, 
his  time,  his  opportunities,  his  genius,  &c. ;  and  not 
prematurely  draw  conclusions  unfavourable  to  himself, 
from  comparing  his  own  method  and  progress  with 
those  of  others;  while  he  perhaps  enjoys,  in  a  higher 
degree ;  the  means  of  acquiring  other  branches  of  this 
study,  equally  useful  and  important. 

The  New  Testament  being  perused  in  the  manner 
prescribed,  and  in  as  short  a  period  as  possible,  it 
should  undergo  a  second  reading.  A  student  of  Di- 
vinity could  scarcely  be  so  dull  as  not  to  gain,  in  this 
way,  a  grammatical  acquaintance  with  the  new  Tes- 
tament, within  three  months. 

In  acquiring  a  knowledge  of  the  Greek  Tongue,  as 
well  as  preserving  it  when  attained,  it  will  prove  of 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  2J 

considerable  advantage,  if  the  learner  accustom  him- 
self to  carry  a  Pocket  Edition  of  the  Greek  Testa- 
ment about  with  him;  and,  when  any  text  is  propound- 
ed either  in  public  or  private,  to  search  it  out  imme- 
diately, and  collate  the  original  with  it.  By  means 
of  this  excellent  practice,  a  habit  is  likewise  formed 
of  accurately  reading  and  #examining  the  original 
Scriptures,  (c) 

Provided  the  ends  proposed  be  effectually  attained, 
it  can  be  of  little  consequence,  however,  what  plan  is 
adopted.  Hence,  we  are  not  authorized  to  assert  that 
the  modes  pursued  by  others  have  no  foundation  in 
reason,  or  that  they  would  not  prove  useful  to  our- 
selves. Minds  are  diverse;  and  the  same  methods 
are  not  equally  adapted  to  every  capacity.  I  have 
recommended  the  plan  which,  according  to  my  views 
and  experience,  is  best  suited  to  the  genius  of  all. 

If,  for  instance,  instead  of  taking  the  first  seven 
chapters  of  Matthew,  a  student  should  choose  rather 
to  select  some  easy  Epistle,  as  John,  Timothy,  Ti- 
tus, &c.  and,  then,  proceed  regularly  through  the 
Testament;  or  should  he  habituate  himself  to  read 
the  sacred  pages  with  more  care  than  has  been  en- 
joined, so  as  perfectly  to  understand  and  familiarize 
one  thing,  before  he  proceed  to  another:  or  were  he, 
agreeably  to  the  advice  of  Lubinus,  to  make  use  of 
that  writer's  interlineary  version ; — in  the  adoption  of 
any  one  of  these  schemes,  the  learner  might,  very  pos- 


STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

sibly,  be  making  a  wise  election.  Again,  it  is  a  mea- 
sure which  may,  perhaps,  be  attended  with  success, 
provided  the  student  be  endued  with  a  happy  memory, 
to  learn  Leusden's  Compendium  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment; or  to  study  the  verses  which,  in  that  author's 
Testament,  are  distinguished  by  an  asterisk,  and 
which  comprise  all  the  words  used  by  the  Sacred 
Writers;  before  he  takes  up  the  New  Testament  it- 
self. Let  not  any  learner,  however,  be  guided  by  his 
own  judgment,  either  in  adopting  or  rejecting  a  me- 
thod ;  but  rather  submit  to  the  decision  of  a  judicious 
tutor  or  friend.  In  conclusion,  I  would,  nevertheless, 
observe,  that  experience  has  repeatedly  and  fully 
shewn  the  excellency  of  the  plan  at  first  prescribed; 
and  no  person  will  ever  have  reason  to  lament  that  he 
gave  that  plan  his  preference,  (d) 

It  is  not  impossible,  but  that  some  of  our  readers 
may  wish  to  devote  more  time  and  attention  to  the 
study  of  the  Greek  language :  and  there  are  still  ex- 
tant several  works  which  throw  considerable  light  on 
Theology;  and,  at  the  same  time,  resemble  the  New 
Testament  in  point  of  style.  Of  this  character,  are 
the  Epistles  of  Clemens  Romanus  (supposed  to  be  the 
Clement  mentioned  Phil.  iv.  3.,)  addressed  to  the 
Corinthian  church,  which  breathe  the  wisdom  of  pri- 
mitive days:  the  Epistles  of  Barnabas,  and  those  of 
Ignatius;  which,  considered  generally,  are  not  unwor- 
thy of  the  soundness  and  gravity  of  the  first  aires  of 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  25 

the  church.  Next  to  these,  we  may  notice  the 
Apologies  of  Justin  Martyr  and  Athenagoras;  and 
the  Homilies  of  Macarius,  which  are  composed  in  an 
easy  and  perspicuous  style.  It  is  indeed  to  be  wished, 
that  works  of  this  complexion  were  more  frequently 
in  the  hands  of  the  studious;  especially  those  which 
were  written  immediately  after  the  earlier  days  of  the 
Christian  church.  Such  reading  has  a  tendency  to 
impress  on  the  mind,  the  image  of  pure  and  undefiled 
Christianity,  even  though  prosecuted  with  primary  re- 
ference to  some  other  object,  (e) 

In  addition  to  these  works,  may  be  mentioned  the 
Septuagint,  and  the  Apocrypha,  among  the  books  of 
which,  that  of  Wisdom  stands  conspicuous.  Euse- 
bius'  Ecclesiastical  History,  embracing  a  per;od  of 
six  hundred  years,  may  follow  in  order  after  those  last 
noticed:  and,  from  this  work-  the  transition  to  the 
best  Greek  fathers,  as  Chrysosrom,  Basil,  he:  will 
be  extremely  easy.  All  these  productions  may  be  so 
read,  as  to  afford  lasting  profit.— Michael  Neander 
has  published  several  books,  in  pursuance  of  this  plan: 
as  "  Patrum  Sentential ;"  "  Apocrypha  Novi  Testa- 
"  menti;"  &c.  The  "  Spicilegium  Patrum"  of 
Grabe,  will  also  merit  the  reader's  attention,  (f) 

I  would  here  repeat  an  observation  which  has  al- 
ready been  made,  that  this  volume  is  not  intended  for 
the  professed  grammarian,  but  solely  for  them  who 
purpose  to  devote  their  time  and  attention  to  the  study 


20  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

of  the  Sacred  Oracles.  That  such  persons  should 
toil  through  the  numerous  works  of  profane  writers, 
would  be,  in  every  respect,  injudicious. 

In  closing  these  remarks  on  the  Greek  of  the  New 
Testament,  and  on  the  writings  of  the  Fathers,  &c. 
I  would  observe  in  reference  to  the  latter,  that,  in 
whatever  terms  I  may  have  recommended  them  to  the 
notice  of  those  who  are  studying  the  language,  their 
authority  is,  at  present,  out  of  the  question.  On  this 
subject,  the  reader  may  consult  the  "  Critica  Sacra" 
of  Rivet;  the  "  Censura  Patrum"  of  Cocus;  and 
Pearson's  "  Vindiciae  Epistolarum  Ignatii."  The 
point  for  our  consideration  was  the  Greek  tongue,  so 
far  as  it  is  connected  with  Divinity;  and,  in  this 
view,  no  one  surely  will  deny,  that  it  must  prove  emi- 
nently beneficial  to  students,  if  they  read  these  works ; 
on  the  same  principles  that  it  is  useful  to  peruse  the 
Apocrypha  appended  to  the  Old  Testament,  (g) 

The  Hebrew  language  next  claims  our  attention. 
In  studying  this,  it  is  not,  in  my  opinion,  advisable  to 
connect  it  with  the  Greek;  for  when  a  student  has  ac- 
quired the  latter  in  a  short  period,  he  will  naturally 
engage  in  learning  the  other  with  more  ardour  and  sa- 
tisfaction. However,  such  is  the  disposition  of  some, 
and  particularly  of  young  persons,  that,  when  required 
to  study  for  any  length  of  time,  they  become  dull  and 
inactive.  On  this  account  it  may,  sometimes,  be  pru- 
dent, to  unite  the.  Latin  with  the  Greek,  or  the  Greek 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  £7 

with  the  Hebrew;  and  to  divide  the  attention,  so  as 
to  appropriate  the  morning  to  the  more  difficult,  and 
the  afternoon  to  the  more  easy  language.  This  prac- 
tice cannot,  however,  be  recommended,  when  an  affi- 
nity exists  between  the  tongues  studied,  as  it  would 
then  introduce  confusion. 

If  it  be  thought  that  the  Hebrew  claims  precedence 
of  the  Greek,  in  point  of  order,  I  do  not  decidedly  op- 
pose the  position;  nor  need  a  learner  be  discouraged 
from  adopting  it,  by  adverting  to  the  popular  method 
of  teaching,  in  the  order  of  Latin,  Greek,  and  He- 
brew, Some  there  are  who  entirely  reverse  the  se- 
ries; neither  does  this  arrangement  want  the  support 
of  reason,  or  the  sanction  of  success. 

Whatever  plan  the  reader  determine  to  adopt,  let- 
it  be  his  primary  care,  to  attend  to  things  really  es- 
sential in  preference  to  those  of  inferior  moment. 
It  is  indeed  much  to  be  wished,  that  this  admonition 
were  more  deeply  impressed  on  the  minds  of  students, 
because  the  observance  of  it,  in  any  branch  of  learn- 
ing, would  invariably  ensure  advancement. 

The  method  which  I  shall  propose  for  acquiring 
the  Hebrew  language,  resembles  that  prescribed  for 
the  Greek.  The  first  four  chapters  of  Genesis  should 
be  studied  and  collated  with  an  accurate  version,  until 
the  learner  be  capable  of  rendering  the  Hebrew  text 
into  his  vernacular  idiom,  without  the  aid  of  a  trans- 
lation,— The  versions  of  Junius  and  Tremellius  me- 


2S  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTTRES. 

rit  a  preference;  and  this  is  likewise  due  to  the  ver* 
sion  of  the  first  four  chapters  of  Genesis,  prefixed  by 
Opitius  to  his  Atrium.  That  of  Genesis  by  Pagni- 
nus,  enriched  with  short  annotations,  and  accompa- 
nied with  the  Hebrew  text,  will  prove  useful  to  be- 
ginners. (It) 

It  will  next  be  proper  to  commit  to  memory  some  ru- 
diments of  the  grammar,  so  as  to  enable  the  learner  to 
know  what  are  prefixes  and  affixes,  as  well  as  the  more 
necessary  paradigms.  (?)  More  time  must,  however, 
be  allotted  to  reading  the  text  itself,  than  to  studying 
the  grammar;  which  will  undoubtedly  be  attained  with 
greater  facility  and  pleasure,  when  the  language  is 
become,  in  some  measure,  familiarized.  Experience 
has  repeatedly  and  clearly  evinced,  to  the  conviction 
of  many  besides  myself,  that,  in  the  course  ofr  only 
four  days,  these  chapters  maybe  perfectly  known;  so 
known,  as  that  the  student  shall  be  able  to  translate 
the  text  into  another  language;  to  ascertain  the  roots 
and  their  signification;  and  to  separate  from  them  the 
prefixes  and  affixes  with  which  they  stand  connected. 
The  great  assistance  which  this  must  afford  in  a  se- 
cond reading,  is  very  evident.  Surely,  a  week  so  em- 
ployed, is  calculated  to  improve  a  learner  more  than 
three  months  spent  over  the  grammar,  and  in  the 
practice  of  analyzing  alone;  through  a  dislike  to  which, 
many  persons  have  totally  given  up  the  study  of  the 
Hebrew  tongue. 


GRAMMATICAL  READING,  29 

A  good  Tutor  will,  at  this  juncture,  prove  emi* 
nently  useful,  in  order  to  deliver  to  the  pupil,  in  a 
concise  and  perspicuous  summary,  such  grammatical 
rudiments  as  he  may  consider  essential.  They  who 
do  not  enjoy  this  privilege,  must  avail  themselves  of 
.  those  works  which  h^ve  been  drawn  up  to  supply  the 
deficiency.  Such  are  the  Analysis  of  the  first  chap- 
ters of  Genesis,  annexed  by  Opitius  to  his  Atrium; 
and  the  Hebrew  Lexicon  of  the  same  celebrated  man, 
written  for  the  use  of  beginners,  after  the  plan  of 
Schrevelius'.  Besides  these,  we  should  notice  Bal- 
dovius'  Analysis  of  Genesis,  accommodated  to  his 
Grammar,  and  printed  with  it;  By  timer's  "  Lyra 
Prophetica,"  or  a  Critico-practical  Analysis  of  the 
book  of  Psalms  (a  most  excellent  production  in  this 
way;)  and  Leusden's  "  Clavis  Yeteris  Testamenti;" 
a  work  similar  to  that  compiled  for  the  Greek  Testa- 
ment, by  the  same  author,  (k) 

Having  perused  the  chapters  prescribed,  and  com- 
mitted to  memory  the  more  essential  rudiments  of 
Grammar,  (as  far  as  this  can  be  done  without  be- 
coming tedious,)  it  remains  that  the  whole  Bible 
should  be-  immediately  and  thoroughly  read  through. 
Compendiums,  Manuals,  &c.  may  respectively  possess 
merit;  but  they  must  never  be  suffered  to  preclude 
the  learner  from  the  Scriptures,  which  should  consti- 
tute the  main  object  of  his  attention.  Many  have 
erred  greatly  in  this  point;  and  after  consuming  much 


B3. 

time  over  compendium*,  their  advancement  has  been 
considerably  impeded,  and  been 

ted  from  studying  the  whole  of  the  Sacred 
_^ 

In  this  perusal  of  t;     v  the  version  used 

should  be  accurate;  that  of  Tremellius  with  Notes,, 
will  be  found  to  merit  recommendation.     It  must  also 
be  prosecuted  with  as  much  persevering  assiduity  as 
possible,  It  og  intervals  have  elapse. 

learner  forget  what  he  had  previously  known. 

The  significations  of  words  may  be  icritten  in  the 
margin,  or  interline  the  text,  until,  by  means  of  repe- 
tition, they  become  familiar.  Numbers  have  testified 
from  experience  -  the  utility  of  this  mode;  though  I 
would  allow  every  one  to  enjoy  his  private  opinion. 
No  person  can,  however,  learn  mere  uncocr 
words  with  either  pleasure  or  profit;  nor  would  I  ad- 
vise the  reader  to  make  use  of  a  Lexicon,  unless  is* 
dec-:".  >  .  -  *.;.:.:  •::  (>.•;-;  :"::.  .. ::  '::  -.i_  :'-.—.-_-  :  .1 
grammatical  knowledge,  much  of  his  time  would,  in 
consequence,  be  irrecoverably  lost.  It  will  prove 
more  beneficial  to  have  a  Bible  with  all  the  roc 
pressed  in  the  margin,  such  as  that  of  Montanus;  or, 
otherwise,  to  write  those  roots  which  are  not  known, 
and  ascertain  their  significations  from  a  friend.  Be- 
sides, little  moment,  if,  in  a  first  reading, 
MnemoHh  nmam  aofbined:  many  have  protracted 
their  advancement  by  yielding  to  the  unreasonable  de- 


GRAMMATICAL  READING. 

While  thus  employed,  in  reading  the  Original 
Scriptures,  the  Hebrew  Grammar,  under  the  direc- 
tion of  a  rilaster,  will  be  gradually  acquired;  for  when 
a  person  is  daily  engaged  in  studying  the  Text,  most 
grammatical  difficulties  will  be  overcome  in  one  or 
two  weeks.  They,  however,  who  can  never  rest  sa- 
tisfied without  inquiring  into  every  critical  nicety,  will 
eventually  lament,  that  their  time  has  been  misapplied. 

The  Old  Testament  being  thus  thoroughly  peru- 
sed, which  we  have  known  some  do  in  the  course  of 
three  months,  it  may  be  read  a  second  time,  and  in  a 
shorter  period;  remembering,  that  it  should  be  a  chief 
concern  with  the  student  not  to  lose  what  was  acqui- 
red in  the  first  reading.  With  this  may  be  connected 
an  examination  into  Idiom;  a  subject  of  which  we  shall 
treat  hereafter.  If  in  this  second  reading,  the  stu- 
dent be  inclined  to  make  use  of  Leusden's  Hebrew 
Manuel,  in  order  to  commit  the  words  of  the  Old 
Testament  to  memory  with  greater  facility,  I  would 
not  dissuade  him  from  the  attempt,  (m) 

It  plainly  appears,  from  what  has  been  advanced, 
that,  in  order  to  study  the  Hebrew  effectually,  we 
should  place  entire  dependance  neither  on  a  Tutor, 
nor  on  private  exertions,  only;  they  must  be  conjoin- 
ed. However  excellent  the  method,  a  very  great  loss 
of  time  will  undoubtedly  be  prevented,  if  the  efforts 
of  the  student  be  seconded  by  those  of  a  teacher;  be- 
cause tbe  latter  can  introduce  him  to  a  deep  acquaint- 


52  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

ance  with  the  language  by  the  readiest  way.  The 
proper  office  of  the  preceptor  is  to  explain  difficulties, 
as,  in  the  course  of  reading,  they  occur;  afld  to  point 
out,  in  a  perspicuous  manner,  the  method  best  adapt- 
ed to  private  study.  I  am  not  unacquainted  with  the 
different  modes  prescribed  by  others;  but  I  am  fully 
warranted  in  saying,  that  this  which  I  have  proposed 
is  most  fully  calculated  to  answer  the  ends  in  view, 
and  the  least  likely  to  issue  in  disappointment,  (n) 

If  the  student  use  Men.  Ben.  Israel's  Bible  with- 
out points,  and  habituate  himself  to  search  out  the 
texts  proposed  in  public  and  in  private,  and  to  com- 
pare them  with  the  Hebrew,  he  will  promote  and  con- 
firm his  progress,  (o) 

In  learning  a  language,  it  is  a  practice  of  no  small 
utility,  for  two  or  three  friends  to  unite  in  the  prose- 
cution of  their  studies,  and  strive  to  afford  mutual  as- 
sistance. This  may  be  accomplished,  by  instituting 
some  kind  of  exercise  or  examination  between  the 
parties. 

When  engaged  in  this  branch  of  Scripture  reading, 
the  student  should  observe  the  following  rules: 

1.  Never  be  weary  of  writing  the  signification  of 
words.  This  is  an  excellent  auxiliary  to  the  memo- 
ry; and,  though  it  may,  perhaps,  appear  to  be  a  tedious, 
unnecessary  provision  at  the  first,  it  will  soon  recom- 
mend itself  by  its  practical  utility. 

%  When  the  Root  of  anv  word  is  not  of  fcasv  at* 


GRAMMATICAL  HEADING.  S3 

tainment,  write  the  word  in  the  margin;  and,  instead 
of  laboriously  searching  it  out  in  a  Lexicon,  ascertain 
it  from  a  Friend  or  Tutor,  This  plan  will  not  be 
found  unprofitable,  in  the  second,  or  even  the  third 
reading;  provided  it  have  been  duly  executed  in  the 
first  reading. 

3.  The  biblical  student  should  carefully  guard 
against  reading  without  rule  or  plan :  he  must  proceed 
through  the  books  of  the  Inspired  Writings  in  their 
regular  succession.  The  persevering  will,  eventu- 
ally, succeed:  while  they  who  are  incessantly  vacilla- 
ting, must  naturally  expect  to  suffer  considerable  loss. 
A  good  acquaintance  with*  a  language  is  but  seldom 
acquired,  when  order  is  not  deemed  of  importance. 

4.  Let  it  be  deeply  impressed  on  the  mind,  that  all 
things  cannot  be  learned  at  once.  It  is  not  requisite, 
that  the  student  should,  in  the  first  reading,  make 
himself  master  of  every  difficulty:  some  points  apper- 
tain rather  to  a  second  and  more  accurate  perusal, 
and  their  consideration  should,  on  that  account,  be 
deferred.  Many  have  imbibed  an  early  distaste  for 
the  study  of  languages,  in  consequence  of  neglecting 
to  attend  to  this  precept. 

5.  The  Text  should  be  frequently  read  aloud;  for 
the  custom  of  reading  mentally,  often  induces  a  habit 
of  stammering  and  reading  slowly,  even  after  a  great 
part  of  the  Bible  has  been  perused. 

3* 


34  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

6.  .It  will  conduce  to  improvement,  if  the  Tutor 
sometimes  read  the  Text,  and  cause  his  pupils'  care- 
fully to  imitate  his  pronunciation. 

7.  When  it  can  be  done,  it  may  be  found  useful  to 
review  and  repeat  on  the  Saturday,  the  lessons  of  the 
preceding  days.  Subsequent  weeks  will  bear  abun- 
dant testimony  to  the  excellency  of  this  practice. 

8.  The  books  of  the  Chronicles,  are  to  be  taken  in 
their  natural  order,  and  follow  the  books  of  Kings; 
which,  in  point  of  subject-matter,  they  much  resem- 
ble.— Those  parts  of  the  Hagiographa  which  are 
written  in  Chaldee,  may,  in  the  first  reading,  be 
omitted,  (p) 

9.  Different  Teachers  should  not  be  employed, 
when  learning  the  rudiments  of  a  language. 

10.  Words  that  seldom,  or  but  once,  occur,  may 
be  noted  on  paper;  or,  they  may  be  impressed  on  the 
mind,  by  the  frequent  repetition  of  Leusden's  Com- 
pendium. 

11.  In  a  first  reading,  those  Proper  Substantives 
which  are  not  easily  distinguishable  from  Appellatives, 
should  be  marked  with  the  pen.  The  progress  of 
students  is  too  frequently  protracted,  through  their 
inability  to  discern  between  Common  and  Proper 
Names. 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  $5 

2.   Of  Idiom. 

If  we  wish  to  interpret  the  Original  Scriptures 
with  propriety,  and  to  form  a  right  judgment  of  Trans- 
lations, it  is  indispensable,  that  we  be  acquainted  with 
the  Idiom  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments.  It  will 
be  highly  necessary,  however,  to  ascertain  what  is 
meant  by  the  term  itself,  before  we  proceed  to  treat 
of  it,  as  a  branch  of  study.  The  doctrine  may,  other- 
wise, be'  extended  to  phrases  to  which  it  by  no  means 
applies:  or,  it  may  be  thought  on  the  other  hand,  that 
all  Idiomatic  expressions  can  be  included  in  a  few 
rules;  and  thus  the  major  part  of  them  will  be  over- 
looked. 

"  An  Idiom,"  observes  Danhauerus,  "  is  an  ex- 
u  pression  common  to  the  whole  language  of  which  it 
"  is  a  part;  pertaining  to  that  language  only;  and  ap- 
"  plying  to  it  always.  Common  to  the  whole  Ian- 
"  guage, — because  always  employed  by  writers  in  that 
"  tongue,  when  they  wish  to  express  the  same  thing: 
"  pertaining  to  it  alone ,  because  not  only  exclusively 
"  but  also  eminently  peculiar  to  it;  and  always,  that 
"  is.  not  from  mere  accident,  or  from  casual  analogy." 

Danhauerus  also  makes  a  just  distinction  between 
Idiom  and  Signification;  intimating  that  the  Significa- 
tion of  words  is  not  in  itself  to  be  referred  to  Idiom, 
but  is  a  study  antecedent  to  it,  and  distinct  from  it; 
being  chiefly  learned  from  etymology,  and  the  use  of 


STOW  DP  THE  SCBIFTUR] 

WOfds. — It  may  also  happen,  that,  through  the  mere 

signification  of  words,  when  translated,   expressions 

Sometimes  be  improperly  deemed  Idiomatic:   as, 

d  cannot  be  rendered  into  another  language 

by  a  word  synonymous;  Ol   only  by  one  that   is  very 

I  roposed. 
That  is  properly  an  Idiom,  which  cannot  be  ren- 
dered  word  for  word,  into  anotl  ige,  without 
i re  purity  o\  that  language  and  wound- 
's of  those  who  an  th  it.   Dan- 
haue                             k  from  Augustine,  that  is  ex- 
tremely pertinent. — %*  We  should  learn  how  the  lan- 
"  gnage  of  I               i  is  to  be  received,  consistently 

respective   languages 
■  tongue  has  modes  of  expr 

would 
"  appear  absurd.'3     If  this  observation  be  duly  m 
ed]  we  shall  readily  apprehend  the  nature  of  Idiom,  (q) 

It  is  now  proper  to  notice,  in  r  to  the  Old 

Test,-  an  Idiom  is  called,  from  the  Hebrew 

tongue,  a  H  except  that  Syriac  and  CI 

I  respectively.  Syriasms    Chakhiams 
i  (horns  are,  by  some,  denomi- 
'.oly   Greek 
Style;'"  a  designation  which  includes  those  p] 

;  :  stk]   but  a: 

Greek  words. 

New  Tt  s  ire  are  carefully 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  37 

to  distinguish  between  Hebraisms  and  pure  Grecisms. 
Ptochen  Stolberg,  and  others  have  indeed  written 
judiciously,  on  the  purity  of  the  New-Testament 
Greek,  and  shown  that  many  phrases  generally  deemed 
Hebraisms,  were  actually  used  by  the  profane  Greek 
writers;  and  it  cannot  be  denied  but  that  caution  is 
necessary  when  collating  the  style  of  the  New,  with 
that  of  the  Old  Testament.  It  is,  nevertheless,  very 
evident  that  the  Inspired  Penmen  borrowed  many 
phrases  from  their  vernacular  tongue.  Hence  on 
the  one  hand  no  person  can  say  that  the  style  of  the 
New  Testament  ditTers  widely  from  that  of  profane 
authors ;  and  yet,  on  the  other*  rto  book  can  be  ren- 
dered into  the  Hebrew  Idiom  with  more  facility  not 
on  account  of  the  subject-matter  only  but  chiefly  be- 
cause of  the  similarity  existing  between  the  respective 
styles  of  their  compositions.  See  the  u  Hermeneuticae 
Sacrae."  of  Danhauerus  Art.  10.  §5.  P.  181  182; 
and  the  authors  cited  by  PfehTer,  "  Critic.  Sac."  P. 
78,  &c.  and  214. — It  therefore  obviously  follows  that 
no  person  can  attain  to  an  exact  acquaintance  with 
the  Idiom  of  the  New  Testament  unless  he  first  study 
the  doctrine  of  Hebraisms  and-  on  this  account  the 
examination  of  Idiom  should  immediately  follow  the 
first  perusal  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments,  (r) 

Among  the  works  which  have  been  written  on  this 
subject  the  l*  Grammatica  Sacra,"  in  the  third  trea- 
tise of  Glassius'  "  Philologia  Sacra,"  merits  particular 


oS  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

regard,  and  judiciously  conjoins  the  Idiom  both  of  the 
Old  and  New  Testaments.  Without  meaning  to  de- 
tract, however,  in  the  least,  from  the  credit  of  this 
celebrated  man,  who  has  deserved  so  well  of  the 
church,  and  whose  memory  I  cannot  but  revere,  it  will 
be  necessary  to  make  a  few  critical  remarks  on  his 
work,  in  order  to  its  being  read  with  profit,  (s) 

1.  The  rules  which  it  contains,  are  taken  from  the 
"  Clavis  Scrip  turae  Sacrae"  of  Flacius  Illyricus:  a 
work  which  may  very  properly  be  read  and  collated 
with  the  book  in  question,  (t) 

2.  A  great  part  of  the  Examples  are  taken  from 
other  authors,  especially  from  the  notes  of  Junius  and 
Tremellius.  Buxtorf  ?s  "  Thesaurus  Grammaticus" 
may  be  likewise  collated  with  it,  as  well  as  the  "  Ob- 
servationes  Philologicse  et  Exegeticae"  of  Chem- 
nitz. (u,y 

3  Glassius  often  considers  as  Idiomatic,  forms  of 
expression  which,  if  duly  examined,  it  will  be  evident 
may  obtain  in  all  languages ;  provided  the  same  cir- 
cumstances concur,  and  make  it  requisite:  being  an 
arbitrary  expression,  and  not  warranted  by  the  genius 
of  the  tongue. 

4.  He  has  increased  the  number  of  the  Rules,  which 
might,  with  more  propriety,  have  been  abridged;  so 
as  not  so  much  to  try  the  memory  of  learners. 

5.  He  does  not  give  the  reasons  of  the  Rules. 
This  might  have  been  done  to  most,  if  not  to  all 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  3D 

of  them ;  and  especially  to  those  on  Grammatical 
Figures. 

6.  He  does  not  treat  of  the  doctrine  of  Idiom  tho- 
roughly. Many  Idioms  lie,  as  it  were,  concealed, 
both  in  the  Hebrew  and  other  languages ;  particular- 
ly, in  the  connexion  of  words.  That  this  is  the  case 
in  the  Latin  tongue,  has  been  fully  proved  by  Schorus ; 
whose  little  works,  "  Methodus  discendae  linguae  Lati- 
nse  et  Grecae,"  and  "  Phrases  Ciceronianae,"  (espe- 
cially the  preface,)  deserve  commendation,  (v) 

Some  valuable  Spicilegia  have  been  added  to  Glas- 
sius' work  by  Danhauerus.  See  Hermeneut  Sac, 
Art.  VI.  P.  183,  &c. 

If  the  reader  desire  to  engage  more  fully  in  this 
study,  he  may  derive  the  requisite  assistance  from  the 
"  Adversaria  Sacra"  of  Fesselius ;  and  from  the 
Commentaries  of  Drusius,  Grotius,  &c.  contained  in 
ten  volumes  of  "  Critici  Sacri."  Pfieffer  likewise 
cites  authors  on  this  subject,  in  his  "  Critica  Sacra,'7 
P.  174,  and  175.  It  is,  however,  to  be  observed, 
that  a  very  tolerable  acquaintance  with  the  subject  of 
Idiom  may  be  acquired  from  the  above-mentioned 
u  Grammatica  Sacra"  of  Glassius.  (w) 

Various  are  the  methods  which  have  been  devised 
for  the  study  of  Glassius'  work.  Some  have  trans- 
cribed an  Index  of  the  Rules  into  their  Bibles,  that 
they  might  be  able  to  refer  to  them  with  less  trouble, 
when  examining  the  text.  Others  have  preferred  read- 


40  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

ing  Herwart's  Compendium:  while  others  again  have 
perused  the  Index  subjoined  to  the  "  Grammatica 
Sacra,"  and  transcribed  in  the  margin  of  their  Bibles, 
the  heads  of  the  rules,  and  even  the  explanations  an- 
nexed by  its  author.  The  last  plan  is  that  which  I 
recommend  to  the  reader,  (x) 

When,  however,  the  assistance  of  a  friend  can  be 
procured,  it  is  really  advisable  for  the  student  to  avail 
himself  of  it.  Any  person  who  thoroughly  understands 
the  nature  of  Idiom,  may  include  the  whole  doctrine 
in  two  sections,  taken,  one  from  the  Old,  and  the 
other,  from  the  New  Testament ;  and  point  out  the 
Idioms  as  they  occur,  adding,  if  agreeable,  the  rules 
from  Glassius  and  other  writers.  I  have  experienced, 
that,  by  adopting  this  mode,  the  whole  may  be  very 
profitably  gone  through  in  the  space  of  one  month. — - 
There  is  one  other  advantage  peculiar  to  it,  that  not 
being  employed  on  various  and  indifferent  parts  of  the 
Bible,  but  confined  to  a  few  definite  pages,  the  student 
enjoys  the  advantage  of  being  able  to  refer  to  a  pa- 
rallel example  in  sections  previously  examined,  when- 
ever a  corresponding  Idiom  comes  under  his  notice. 

The  Tutor  may  follow  the  order  of  the  Rules,  first, 
briefly  explaining  them ;  adding,  next,  one  or  two  se- 
lect examples ;  and,  lastly,  impressing  the  whole  upon 
the  pupil's  mind  by  an  attentive  examination.  This 
will  not  be  a  task  of  any  length. 

It  must  be  confessed,  that,  in  gaining  a  knowledge 


GRAMMATICAL  READING.  41 

of  Idiom,  much  depends  on  a  cc  ent  pe- 

rusal cf  t::e  Gi'-ek  c.'  &  evi- 

dent, from  considering  the  principles  on  which-,  with- 
out adverting  to  any  Rules ,  we  judge  of  our  vernacu- 
lar Idiom.  It  always  sounds  very  harshly  to  us  who 
are  familiar  with  it,  whenever  this  is  violated ;  and 
we  may  therefore  conclude,  that  a  perfect  acquaintance 
with  the  Idiom  of  any  tongue,  is  best  acquired  by  stu- 
dying and  familiarizing  the  tongue  itself. 

Having  now  treated  of  the  doctrine  of  Mom,  and 
made  those  remarks  on  it  as  a  study  which  we  deem- 
ed important,  let  the  reader  be  admonished,  not  to 
devote  his  time  and  attention  to  the  Letter  of  Scrip- 
ture only,  but  hasten  to  the  enjoyment  of  those  sacred 
delights,  which  flow  from  the  Spirit  of  the  lively 
Oracles. 


3.   Of  the  Chaldee  Language. 

When  the  student  has  made  a  proficiency  in  the 
Hebrew,  he  should  commence  with  the  Chaldee  lan- 
guage. This  may  be  learned  according  to  the  me- 
thod prescribed  for  acquiring  the  Greek  and  Hebrew: 
— taking  those  parts  of  the  Scriptures  that  were  writ- 
ten in  Chaldee,  and  reading  them  with  a  translation. 

They  who  covet  a  more  enlarged  knowledge  of  this 
tongue,  may  study  the  Targum;  which,  if  they  be 
4 


STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES 

previously  versed  in  the  Hebrew,  will  cost  them  littles 
trouble  to  understand.  See  Pfeiffer's  "  Critiea  Sa- 
cra," page  398,  &c.  (y) 


4<    Of  the  Rabbinical  Writings. 

The  study  of  Rabbinism  presupposes  an  acquaint- 
ance with  the  Hebrew  and  Chaldee;  and  is  better 
learned  by  practice,  than  by  precept.  Cellarius  has 
written  on  this  subject;  and  Sixtinus  Amama  has  pro- 
posed an  easy  method  of  acquiring  it.  Those  who  do 
not  make  this  their  professed  study,  (which  can  be 
proper  for  but  few,)  will  find  it  sufficient,  if  they  at- 
tentively peruse  Michlal  Iophi;  which  is  a  kind  of 
Literal  Commentary  on  the  Old  Testament,  and  con- 
tains the  substance  of  all  the  Rabbinical  Annotations. 
A  Master  will  be  useful  in  this  branch  of  Scripture 
literature,  in  order  to  explain  any  difficulties  that  may 
occur. — They  who  wish  to  engage  in  the  study  more 
fully,  may  consult  the  Biblia  of  Buxtorf  ;  and  Pfeif- 
fer's "  Manuductio  facilis  ad  lectionem  Talmudico- 
Rabbinicam."  Vide  "  Critiea  Sacra,"  Page  517, 
&c.  (z) 

He  who  applies  himself  to  the  writings  of  the  Rab- 
bins with  an  undue  and  intemperate  ardour,  may,  per- 
haps, enjoy  his  labours;  but  I  would  caution  the  read- 
er against  filling  his  mind  with  Judaical  absurdities, 
while  the  Sacred  Volume  invites  him  to  contemplate 
divine  truths,  and  to  participate  of  divine  pleasures 


HISTORICAL  READING. 

CHAPTER  II. 

OF  HISTOIUGAX.  REAMKG. 


Historical  Reading  is  confined  to  the  outward 
Letter  of  Scripture,  and  its  proper  tendency  is  to  lead 
the  mind  to  an  historical  knowledge  of  the  things  con- 
tained in  it,  as  the  Argument,  Scope,  &c. — whether 
this  knowledge  be  sought  in  the  Volume  of  inspiration 
itself,  or  through  the  medium  of  other  helps,  (a) 

Historical  reading  comprehends  an  acquaintance 
with  the  following  particulars : — • 

I.  The  Sum  and  Substance  of  the  Old  and  New 
Testaments.  This  may  be  acquired  from  a  cursory 
perusal:  and,  indeed,  might  be  reasonably  presupposed 
in  a  student  of  divinity,  who  is  expected  "  to  have 
"  known  from  a  child,  the  Holy  Scriptures:"  2  Tim. 
iii.  15.  The  Sum  and  Substance  of  the  Old  and 
New  Testaments,  we  define  to  be — what  is  under- 
stood by  "  the  Old  and  New  Testaments;"  and,  like- 
wise, the  points  in  which  they  differ  from  each  other. 
Luther's  Prefaces  will  furnish  the  reader  with  all  ne- 


U  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

cessary  information  on  this  head;  and  give  him  a  ge- 
latter  of  the  books  of  Scrip- 
ture. (6) 

II.  The  Inspired  Penmen. 

III.  The  Occasion  or  Causes  of  writing.  These 
are,  most  commonly,  declared  by  the  Sacred  Writers 
in  explicit  terms;  and,  when  diligently  examined,  they 
assist  the  reader  in  ascertaining  the  Scope,  and  in 
gaining  a  fuller  conception  of  the  Subject. 

IV.  The  Scope:  so  far  as  it  can  be  gathered  from 
historical  incidents. 

V.  The  Arquments  of  the  respective  books:  a 
perfect  acquaintance  with  which,  prepares  the  mind 
for  more  accurate  investigation.  A  knowledge  of 
the  Arguments j  whether  of  books  or  chapters,  may 
be  acquired  with  more  advantage  from  Scripture  it- 
self, than  from  any  compilations  that  have  been 
made  to  assist  the  memory;  as  Martin's  "  Memoriale 

Biblicum,"   Heidegger's   "  Enchiridion,"    &c. 

though  works  of  this  kind  may  be  useful  in  the  busi- 
ness of  repetition,  and  in  more  forcibly  impressing  on 
the  memory  what  has  been  previously  learned.  It  is, 
nevertheless,  proper  to  guard  against  wasting  time 
over  compendiums;   and  against  such  an  attention  to 


HISTORICAL  READING.  45 

the  mere  Letter,  as  might  induce  a  neglect  of  the 
Spirit  of  the  Holy  Oracles.  Diligence  in  reading  and 
examining  the  Word  itself,  is  a  compendious  system 
of  mnemonics,  (c) 

Under  this  head,  there  are  three  helps  worthy  of 
remark: — a  Tutor,-  Diligence,  and  Exercises  institu- 
ted between  fellow-students. 

A  Tutor.  The  instructions  of  an  able  Tutor  or 
Friend,  will  prevent  much  loss  of  time,  and  be  other- 
wise of  essential  service;  when  the  student  is  engaged 
in  obtaining  a  knowledge  of  those  things,  which  relate, 
as  well  to  the  whole  Scripture,  as  to  its  respective 
books.  Indeed,  it  cannot  but  prove  exceedingly  pre- 
judicial to  the  learner,  if  he  be  deprived  of  the  ad- 
vantages that  result  from  the  cathechetical  mode  of 
teaching;  which,  by  descanting  on  the  scope,  argu- 
ment, &c.  of  a  book,  and  by  asking  questions  con- 
cerning them,  is  so  happily  calculated  to  impress  the 
memory. 

Diligence.  The  best  mode  of  confirming  the  mind 
in  the  recollection  of  what  has  been  previously  learned 
from  the  lips  of  a  Tutor,  is  to  read  and  re-read  the 
books  oi  Scripture.  It  is  indeed  necessary  to  be  in- 
cessantly exercised  in  these  elements  of  exposition, 
and  thus  to  render  them  familiar;  lest,  in  interpreting 
any  Sacred  Writer,  we  be  betrayed  into  error. 

Exercises  between  Associates  in  Study.    Frequent 
4* 


46  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

discussion  and  converse  with  fellow-students,  are,  in 
this,  as  well  as  all  other  parts  of  learning,  extremely 
helpful  to  the  memory,  when  conducted  with  due  mo- 
deration. By  means  of  these,  we  may  both  form  an 
acquaintance  with  the  Arguments,  &c.  of  books  and 
chapters;  and  likewise  retain  them  constantly  in  re- 
collection. 

VI.  The  Seats  of  Subjects.  A  knowledge  of 
these  is  requisite,  in  order  that  the  Scriptures  may  be 
digested  in  the  mind,  as  it  were,  into  common-places ; 
whence  passages  parallel  to  any  text  that  may  occur, 
will  readily  suggest  themselves.  With  a  view  to  this, 
it  is  recommended  by  Wolffgang  Franzius,  in  his  ad- 
mirable preface  to  his  treatise,  "  De  Scripturae  Sa- 
crae  Interpretation, "  not  to  measure  our  reading  by 
the  chapters  into  which  Holy  Writ  has  been  divided, 
but  to  peruse  an  entire  subject  at  one  time.  Were 
this  monition  strictly  regarded,  students  would  clearly 
perceive,  that  to  explain  scripture  by  scripture,  and 
difficult  passages  by  others  of  easier  solution,  is  an 
invaluable  expository  help:  and  they  would  likewise 
have  in  constant  readiness,  a  system  of  Divinity  com- 
piled from  the  Sacred  volume  itself,  and  divested  of 
all  human  glosses,  (d) 

The  high  importance  of  this  help  was  not  unobserved 
by  Chemnitz.  TT?  says — "  Since  the  several  articles 
ci  of  the  Christian  faith,  have  their  own  peculiar  Seats, 


HISTORICAL  READING.  17 

u  in  certain  parts  of  God's  Word;  it  is  indispensably 
a  requisite  to  ascertain  and  familiarize  those  sacred 
"  testimonies  by  which  scriptural  truths  are  confirmed. 
"  He  who  deserts  these  testimonies,  at  once  so  suita- 
"  ble  and  perspicuous,  in  order  to  give  the  ampler 
"  scope  to  the  exercise  of  his  own  judgment,  is  unwor- 
"  thy  of  the  student's  imitation  and  regard.  Let  the 
St  Scriptures  explain  themselves:  and  let  their  genuine 
"  force  and  native  emphasis  be  carefully  collected  from 
u  the  grammatical  signification  of  the  words,  &c.  in 
"  order  that  the  sacred  testimonies  may  carry  with 
"  them  their  full  weight.  It  is  also  proper  to  know, 
"  in  what  manner,  and  on  what  principles,  they  are 
"  applied;  as  well  when  adduced  to  detect  error,  as 
11  when  they  are  cited  to  confirm  truth." — These  re- 
u  marks  are  applicable  to  Doctrinal  Reading  likewise ; 
for  which,  see  Part  II.  Chap  3.  (e) 

The  Seat  of  a  subject  is — any  place  in  the  Scrip- 
tures where  such  subject  is  treated:  whether  profess- 
edly; or  in  subordination  to  another  subject ;  or,  more 
especially,  when  it  is  regularly  discussed  and  grounded 
by  the  obvious  appointment  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  This 
last  may  be  termed  its  Proper  Seat ;  and  is  that  of 
which  we,  at  present,  chiefly  speak.  It  should,  how- 
ever, be  remarked,  that  the  same  subjects  are  thus 
treated,  in  more  than  one  chapter  and  book  of  Scrip- 
ture ;  and.  hence,  there  is  an  evident  difference  even 
between  the  Proper  Seats  of  the  .same  subject.    The 


4S  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

doctrine  of  Justification,  for  instance,  is  considered  in 
the  third  chapter  of  Philippians,  as  in  its  Proper  Seat ; 
but  the  epistles  to  the  Romans  and  Galatians,  are, 
more  eminently,  the  Seats  of  that  doctrine. 

The  student  will  find  it  a  beneficial  practice,  if  he 
draw  up,  as  he  reads,  for  his  own  private  use,  an  In- 
dex of  Subjects  digested  according  to  their  Proper 
Seats.  To  form  such  an  Index,  will  not  require  mucB 
labour,  and  will  certainly  be  productive  of  abundant 
advantage.  Those  which  are  prepared  by  others  (as 
that  of  Tossanus,  annexed  to  the  version  of  Junius 
and  Tremellius,)  do  not  so  forcibly  affect  the  memo- 
ry. Young  persons  are  not  indeed  capable  of  ar- 
ranging such  an  Index  with  the  requisite  precision: 
they  ought,  on  that  account,  to  be  assisted  by  a  Mas- 
ter, at  least  in  a  few  chapters,  lest  their  time  and  la- 
bour should  be  unsuccessfully  bestowed.  (J) 

The  exercises  of  Discussion  and  Examination  are 
better  adapted  to  fix  the  seats  of  subjects  in  the  mind, 
than  any  other  means  whatever.  Students  do  not  in- 
deed usually  appreciate  the  important  advantages 
which  result  from  a  perfect  acquaintance  with  the 
Seats,  and  therefore  do  not  cultivate  this  branch  of 
study  with  a  correspondent  attention  ;  but  experience 
will  demonstrate  and  enforce  its  claims, 

VII.      ExTER.VAL     Cl$(  ■>.         Such     arts 

MSS.  editions ;    versions ;    the  divisions,    made   by 


HISTORICAL  READING  ft 

chapters,  verses,  and  points  ;  accents ;  inscriptions ; 
subscriptions ;  various  readings ;  the  Masora  ;  &,c. — 
these  may  be  emphatically  denominated  external.  On 
such  points,  recourse  may  be  had  to  the  following 
works: — Walther's  u  Officina  Biblica ;"  Kortholtus 
u  de  variis  Scripturse  Sacrse  Editionibus ;"  Scherert- 
zius'  "  Animadversiones  Philologicae  in  Codicem  Ye-* 
teris  et  Novi  Testamenti ;"  Fabricius'  "  Partitiones 
Codicis  Hebrsei ;"  and  Father  Richard  Simon's 
u  Critica  Sacra  Veteris  et  Novi  Testamenti." — It 
is,  however,  allowed,  that  these  books  contain  excep- 
tionable matter ;  and,  among  others,  this  is  noticed 
by  Majus,  in  several  Latin  Dissertations  published  at 
Frankfort  in  1690 ;  and  also  by  Walton,  in  the  pre- 
face to  his  Polyglott  Bible.  Many  remarks  to  this 
effect  maybe  likewise  seen  in  the  "  Critica  Sacra"  of 
Pfeiffer.  (g) 

Various  things  connected  with  History  occur  even 
in  texts  of  Scripture :  as  the  names  of  places  and  sea- 
sons ;  genealogies ;  various  kinds  of  money,  weights, 
and  measures ;  phrases  appropriated  to  peculiar  anti- 
quities, rites,  laws,  privileges,  or  to  some  condition 
of  persons.  Whatever,  therefore,  goes  to  explain  such 
points,  appertains  to  Historical  Reading.  Hence,  Na- 
tural History,  is,  in  no  small  degree,  helpful  to  the  bib- 
lical student ;  and  on  this  ground,  Franzius  composed 
his  "  Historia  Anamalium,"  and  has  been  followed 
more  at  large  bv  Bochart  in  his  a  Hierozoictts." 


5#  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

The  other  learned  works  of  the  latter  merit  commen- 
dation, (h) 

It  is  proper  to  remark,  with  regard  to  Historical 
reading,  that  it  would  be  unwise,  indeed,  to  prefer  it, 
as  it  concerns  the  subjects  which  have  been  consider- 
ed, to  the  other  branches  of  Scripture  Reading;  a 
•position  on  which  we  shall  speak  more  fully,  in  treat- 
ing of  the  Order  in  which  the  Sacred  Volume  should 
be  studied.  To  be  immoderately  anxious  about  things 
merely  external,  argues  a  great  insensibility  of  the 
internal  excellencies  of  the  Holy  Scriptures. — It 
should  likewise  be  our  concern,  to  guard  against  vain- 
glory, in  a  business  wherein  the  glory  of  God  should 
be  our  only  object. 

There  is  also  a  necessity  for  the  exercise  of  cau- 
tion, lest  a  knowledge  of  external  points  render  us  less 
ardent  and  lively  in  reading  the  Word  itself.  How 
many  are  there  who  err  in  this  respect,  and  feed  con- 
tentedly on  the  husks,  while  those  heavenly  delights 
which  flow  from  the  Volume  of  Revelation  remain  un- 
tasted  and  unenjoyed. 

Since  the  Letter  is  examined  only  for  the  sake  of 
the  Spirit  of  the  Sacred  Oracles,  we  should  contemn 
whatever  cannot  be  reduced  to  some  useful  purpose; 
and  never  give  place  to  vain,  unprofitable  curiosity. 
He  who  protracts  his  advancement,  by  dwelling  too 
long  on  things  of  secondary  importance,  is  justly 
deemed  unworthy  of  the  divine  wisdom  which  Scrip- 


HISTORICAL  BEADING.  U 

ture  inculcates.  In  this  study,  our  estimate  of  other 
books  is  constantly  to  be  formed,  from  the  degree  in 
which  they  assist  us  in  attaining  the  proper  object  of 
the  Bible  itself. 

There  are  some  things  which,  from  their  pecu- 
liar nature,  must  be  referred  to  following  chapters; 
thus,  the  Scope  and  Argument  are  more  accurately 
considered  under  Analytical  Reading.  They  could 
not,  however,  be  excluded  from  this  chapter,  because 
they  are  to  be  historically  known,  and  appertain  to 
any  general  comprehension  of  the  things  contained  in 
Scripture;  and  yet  they  are  not  so  known  as  in  Ana- 
lytical and  Expository  reading,  where  they  will  re- 
quire a  further  investigation. 

It  is  highly  prejudicial  to  young  students,  to  take 
up,  at  will,  the  works  of  many  and  various  writers; 
since  they  want  judgment  to  discriminate,  skill  to  se- 
lect, as  well  as  practice  and  experience  to  read  books 
with  profit.  During  the  first  years  of  study,  they 
should  confine  themselves  within  the  limits  prescribed  . 
by  a  Friend  or  Tutor.  They  should  read  little,  but 
read  that  little  well;  they  should  prefer  those  works 
whose  tendency  is  to  lay  a  solid  foundation,  and  pe- 
ruse them  in  a  sedate  and  attentive  manner;  never 
commencing  any  other  book  until  the  subject  of  the 
former  be  perfectly  understood  and  digested.  If  these 
monitions  be  neglected,  they  may  become  sciolists, 
but  never  men  of  learning;  sophists,  but  never  truly 


$»  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

wise  :  the  mind  will  be  possessed  by  an  intemperate 
thirst  after  "  knowledge  that  puffeth  up/'  and  filled 
with  unholy  indifference  for  "  the  wisdom  which  cometh 
from  above." 


ANALYTICAL  READIKO.  53 


CHAPTER  III. 

9E  ANALYTICAL  READING*, 


Analytical  Reading  of  Scripture,  is  that  by  which 
we  institute  a  logical  analysis;  and  consider  the  struc- 
ture, connexion,  and  order,  of  entire  books  and  par*» 
ticular  texts  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments:  that, 
being  thus  resolved  into  their  first  principles,  they 
may  be  understood  with  the  greater  facility  and  pre- 
cision. 

This  branch  of  reading  is  not  prescribed,  on  the 
supposition  that  the  Sacred  Penmen  affected  to  com- 
pose and  arrange  their  subjects,  according  to  the 
rules  of  Logic ;  for  it  were  absurd  to  entertain  so  un- 
worthy an  idea  of  men  divinely  inspired;  but  it  is 
adopted,  because  Order  is  so  natural  to  the  things 
themselves,  to  reason,  and  to  discourse,  that  it  ac- 
companies language,  whether  sacred  or  profane,  even 
when  it  is  not  studied;  and  tends,  in  no  small  degree, 
to  render  it  perspicuous  and  easily  understood,  This 
is  evident  in  all  discourse;  for,  though  it  be  of  the 
most  familiar  kind,  it  will  not  please  an  iUitercde  per- 
5 


5i  STUDi  OF  TiJE  SCRIPTURE». 

son,  unless  its  parts  harmonize,  and  order  be  observed. 
Hence,  it  is  certain,  that  to  observe  the  order  and 
connexion,  is  more  necessary  in  interpreting,  than  in 
dictating;  because,  in  the  former,  they  are  not  imme- 
diately obvious  to  all;  while,  as  it  respects  the  latter. 
we  have  only  to  follow  as  nature  leads. 

That  it  is  highly  expedient  to  obtain  an  accurate 
knowledge  of  Logical  Analysis  is  evident  from  the 
following  considerations: 

1.  As  all  helps  calculated  to  expound  the  Scrip- 
tures, reciprocally  explain,  assist,  and  confirm  each 
other;  so  Analysis  has  a  great  effect  in  determining 
the  Emphasis,  Idiom,  Literal  Sense,  Inferences,  and 
Practical  Application. 

2.  Analysis  causes  the  several  members,  and  even 
words  of  the  Text,  to  be  considered  with  more  accu- 
racy and  precision. 

3.  It  affords  especial  aid  to  the  memory. 

4.  When  any  thing  is  to  be,  or  has  been,  proved 
from  a  text,  it  lays  the  whole  connexion  of  the  sub- 
ject open  to  inspection. 

5.  It  assists  in  meditation  and  in  the  delivery  of  a 
discourse. 

6.  It  developes  the  grounds  on  which  the  Inspired 
"Writers  propound  their  doctrines;  which  is  a  point  of 
of  much  importance. 


ANALYTICAL  READ  -3  J 

7.  It  conduces,  in  no  small  degree.,  to  the  deci- 
sion of  controversies. 

Logical  Reading  is  employed  either  on  whole  Books, 
or  on  particular  Texts.  The  resolution  of  particular 
Texts,  however,  presupposes  an  acquaintance  with 
the  structure  of  whole  Books.  Indeed,  they  who 
begin  with  texts,  are  generally  deficient,  as  they  are 
not  prepared  for  that  branch  of  Analysis. 

In  Logical  Reading,  the  Books  of  Scripture  must 
evidently  be  considered  in  different  views. 

First,  the  Doctrinal  books  are  to  be  referred  hi- 
ther; such  are  the  Epistles  in  the  New  Testament. 
A  distinction  is  to  be  made  between  these,  the  His- 
torical and  Prophetic  books,  and  the  Psalms:  and 
they  also  must  be  distinguished  from  each  other. 

The  Doctrinal  books  are  either  of  one,  or  of  Pori- 
ous  Argument.  If  they  be  of  the  latter  kind,  the 
different  Arguments  must  be  separated,  and  each  of 
them  analyzed  apart.  Thus,  the  first  Epistle  to  the 
Corinthians  treats  of  the  following  particulars: 

1.  The  inconsiderate  Zeal  of  that  church;  under 
the  influence  of  which,  one  person  preferred  Paul; 
and  another,  Apollos:  to  Chap.  4.  inclusive. 

2.  The  Incest  that  had  been  committed  among 
them:  Chap.  5. 

3.  Their  Law-suits:  Chan.  G, 


5u  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

4.  Their  Fornication:  Chap.  6. 

5.  Of  Marriage  and  Divorce:  Chap.  7. 

6.  Of  Things  offered  to  Idols:  Chapters  8,  9,  10, 

7.  Of  the  External  Deportment  of  Christians,  in 
the  public  congregation:  Chap.  11. 

8.  Of  the  Abuse  of  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's 
Supper:  Chap.  11. 

9.  Of  Spiritual  Gifts;  and  the  Harmony  subsisting 
between  such  gifts  in  certain  particulars:  Chap.  12. 

10.  Of  Christian  Love:  Chap.  13. 

11.  Of  the  Manner  of  conducting  Holy  Assem- 
blies; and  of  prophesying  therein:  Chap.  14. 

12.  Of  the  Resurrection:   Chap.  15. 

13.  Of  Alms,  &c.  Chap.  16. 

If  they  consist  of  one  Argument,  the  following  rules 
must  be  observed: 

1 .  By  frequent  reading,  the  Scope  should  be  well 
ascertained  and  understood. 

2.  All  Conclusions  affecting  the  principal  Scope 
and  General  Argument  of  the  whole  book,  must  bo 
seduously  compared  with  the  Scope. 

3.  The  Middle  Terms  must  be  thoroughly  weighed, 
and  compared  with  all  the  subordinate  Conclusions. 

It  may,  hewever,  prove  sufficient  to  give  us  a  right 


ANALYTICAL  READING  5/ 

Understanding  of  the  structure  of  a  book,  if  we  duly 
notice  the  Scope  of  the  whole,  the  Conclusions  ac- 
commodated to  the  Scope,  and  the  Middle  Terms 
prepared  to  produce  these  Conclusions;  all  arranged 
in  their  proper  order.  That  this  may  more  effectu- 
ally be  accomplished,  it  will  be  necessary  to  observe 
the  subsequent  remarks: 

1.  The  greater  number  of  the  books  in  question 
are  polemical;*  whence,  if  the  Opposite  Proposition 
be  examined,  it  will  afford  material  service  in  ascer- 
taining the  Scope,  and  in  distinguishing  it  from  that 
of  other  books.  This  is  evidently  the  case  in  the 
Epistle  to  the  Galatians.  (a) 

2.  Most  of  the  epistles  are  divided  into  four  parts: 
that  is,  contain  two  principal  parts;  of  which  the 
former  is  doctrinal :  and  the  latter,  hortatory,  or  prac- 
tical, and,  as  it  were,  applicatory,  (as  may  be  seen  in 
Romans,  Galatians,  Ephesians,  and  Colossians:)  and 
two  secondary  parts,  the  Exordium  and  the  Conclu- 
sion. If  the  Analysis  of  the  Doctrinal  part  be  pro- 
perly instituted,  little  difficulty  will  attend  the 
others,  (b) 

3.  Several  books  treat  of  the  same,  or  at  least,  of 
a  kindred  Argument;  and  some  analytical  aid  may  be 
drawn  from  this  affinity.  Thus,  the  Epistles  to  the 
Romans  and  Galatians  both  treat  of  Justification; 
and  the  Epistles  addressed  to  the  Ephesians;  Phi- 


58  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

lippians,  and  Colossians;  touch  likewise  on  the  same 
subject. 

The  Historical  Books  are  attended  with  less  diffi- 
culty, because  the  order,  in  an  historical  narration, 
cannot  but  be  obvious.  The  different  histories  which 
they  contain,  should,  however,  be  accurately  separa- 
ted; and,  then,  considered  according  to  antecedents 
and  consequents.  We  shall  find  it  of  assistance  here, 
if  we  begin  to  read,  not  by  chapters,  but  as  was  be- 
fore recommended,  by  distinct  subjects. 

The  Prophetical  Books  are  very  similar  in  nature 
to  the  Historical  Books,  and  borrow  light  from  them. 
This  was  also  Luther's  opinion:  Praef.  in  Jes.  The 
Prophetical  Books  refer  to  the  future ;  as  the  Histo- 
rical, to  the  past. 

The  Psalms  must  be  analyzed  separately;  and, 
being  short,  they  will  be  solved  with  more  ease  than 
whole  books:  especially  if  we  be  careful  not  to  in- 
fringe, by  any  refined  logical  subtilties,  on  the  Pro- 
phetic Spirit,  the  Affections  of  the  Writer,  and  the 
Scope  of  God  the  Holy  Ghost.  When  Analysis  has 
in  it  any  thing  forced,  it  must  necessarily  be  defec- 
tive. A  warm  and  glowing  emotion  will  frequently 
overstep  the  limits  of  natural,  or,  rather,  of  accus- 
tomed order;  nor  can  it  reasonably  be  confined  withio 


ANALYTICAL  READING .  $  j 

them.  See  Gen.  xlviii.  14.  We  do  best,  when  we 
seek  the  Order  in  the  Subject;  and  not  the  Subject, 
in  an  order  which  we  may  have  ill  conceived. 

In  analyzing  a  Doctrinal  Text,  the  following  rules 
must  be  attended  to : 

1.  The  Text  should  be  referred  to  the  Proper 
Argument  and  General  Scope  of  the  whole  book;  for 
various  things  belong  to  various  scopes. 

2.  We  must  examine  whether  the  Text  have  not 
a  nearer  connexion  with  some  subordinate  Scope;  and, 
consequently,  a  mediate  rather  than  immediate,  re- 
ference to  the  Scope  of  the  whole  Book. 

3.  It  is  proper  to  inquire,  whether  the  Text  refer 
to  the  General  Scope,  as  a  Conclusion,  as  a  Middle 
Term,  or  as  a  Perfect  Syllogism :  and  also,  whether 
the  Argument  go  to  prove,  to  explain,  or  to  illus- 
trate; all  which,  it  will  not  be  difficult  to  ascertain, 
when  we  are  thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  argument 
and  structure  of  the  whole  Book  or  Section,  (c) 

4.  The  Proposition  contained  in  the  Text,  must 
next  be  formed  and  examined;  and  this,  not  in  diffe- 
rent or  more  simple  language  (which  belongs  to  Ex- 
position,) but  in  the  very  words  of  the  Text. 

5.  The  Subject  and  Predicate  of  the  proposition 
must  be  considered,  (d) 

6.  The  casual  matter  which  may  attach  to  tho 


0  STUDY  OP  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

Subject  and  Predicate  must  be  separated;  and  it 
should  be  ascertained,  what  part  of  it  belongs  to  the 
former,  and  what  to  the  latter;  as  well  as  what  rela- 
tion they  bear  to  each  other. 

7.  If  there  be  several  Doctrines  enumerated  iu 
one  Text,  they  must  be  examined  separately;  and, 
afterwards,  the  order  in  which  they  connect  should 
he  ascertained;  a  point  to  which  the  Inspired  Writers 
are  usually  very  attentive. 

In  order  that  the  mode  of  instituting  an  Analysis 
of  any  entire  doctrinal  Book  may  be  rendered  evident 
to  all,  we  propose  the  following  rules,  in  addition  to 
those  which  have  been  already  given: 

I.  Read,  re-read,  and  repeat  the  whole  Epistle 
(for  here  I  allude  more  particularly  to  the  Epistles,) 
from  beginning  to  end,  in  the  original  Greek;  and,  if 
possible,  in  an  ancient  copy,  where  the  text  is  not  di- 
vided into  verses.  Read  it,  as^ou  would  an  epistle  from 
a  friend,  three  or  four  times  over  without  interrup- 
tion, until  you  fully  apprehend  the  meaning,  and  the 
subject  of  the  whole  letter  become  clear.  In  fact, 
it  should  be  perused,  as  it  may  be  supposed,  the 
Epistles  which  Paul  addressed  to  the  Corinthians 
were  perused  by  them — frequently;  not  with  many 
interruptions;  not  by  chapters;  but  the  whole  read,  at 
once,  and  until  they  perfectly  understood  the  Apostle's 


ANALYTICAL  UtiADL\ G .  61 

mind. — Much  perplexity  has  certainly  arisen  from  the 
manner  in  which  the  generality  of  persons  read  the 
Scriptures.  They  mangle  and  dismember  a  text;  and 
consider  that  separately,  which  should  always  be  con- 
nected with  antecedents  and  consequents.  On  this 
account,  we  again  recommend  the  advice  given  by 
Franzius,  to  read  without  observing  the  arbitrary  di- 
visions of  chapter  and  verse. 

II.  From  this  perusal,  re-perusal,  and  repetition  of 
the  Epistle,  the  student  must  take  care  to  derive  a 
right  knowledge  of  the  Scope  which  the  Apostle  had 
in  writing  it,  and  thus  obtain  an  acquaintance  with  the 
General  Argument  of  the  Epistle. 

In  order  to  succeed  in  this  effectually,  let  the  sub- 
sequent precautions  be  attended  to : 

1 .  Remark  the  Words  by  which  the  Apostle  him- 
self declares  his  object  and  scope ;  which  he  frequently 
does  in  express  terms. 

2.  Remark  the  Historical  Incidents  noticed  in  the 
Text;  from  which  some  judgment  may  be  formed  of 
the  state  of  the  controversy,  as  well  as  of  the  circum- 
stances of  the  church  or  person  to  whom  the  Epistle 
is  addressed. 

3.  When  reference  can  be  made  to  the  "  Acts  of 
the  Apostles,"  examine  that  book,  and  collate  it  with 
the  text;  inasmuch  as  it  throws  light  on  all  the 
Epistles 


STUDY  OF  THIS  SCRIPTURES. 

4.  Weigh  every  word  attentively  (not  however 
spending  much  time  over  minute  words;)  and  consi- 
der whether  it  contain  any  thing  which  may  lead  to  a 
more  accurate  judgment  of  the  scope  and  argument  of 
the  whole  Epistle.  No  one  can  easily  be  so  dull  of 
apprehension,  as  not  to  attain,  by  this  means,  the  ob- 
ject he  should  have  in  view. 

III.  When  all  this  has  been  done,  the  student 
should  resume  the  Epistle,  and  sedulously  weigh  the 
Conclusions  interspersed  through  it.  These  are  best 
ascertained  by  means  of  the  particles,  xv  ocpoc  ho  <Sfc. 
wherefore,  therefore,  &.c.  (e) 

Writh  respect  to  these  Conclusions — 

1 .  Gain  some  knowledge  of  their  meaning. 

2.  Compare  them  together,  in  order  to  determine 
in  what  they  agree,  and  in  what  they  differ. 

3.  Compare  them  with  Scope  and  Argument  of 
the  whole  Epistle;  both  which,  it  is  supposed,  are 
become  familar  to  the  student. 

4.  Distinguish  those  which  contain  the  Entire 
Scope  of  the  whole  Epistle,  immediately  in  them- 
selves; and  those  which  are  referred  to  it  mediately; 
that  is,  are  as  Middle  Terms  to  the  Principal  Con- 
clusion. According  to  the  accuracy  with  which  the 
Conclusions  are  understood,  and  the  precision  with 
which  they  are  distinguished;  will  the  entrance  to 


ANALYTICAL  READING.  € $ 

Logical  Analysis  become  more  or  less  easy  and  cer- 
tain. For  what  is  it  to  institute  a  Logical  Analysis, 
but  to  search  out  the  truth  contained  in  any  Proposi- 
tion or  Conclusion ,  and  the  Middle  Terms  by  which 
that  truth  is  demonstrated? 

IV.  The  Conclusions  being  thus  examined,  the 
student  should  resume  the  Epistle,  and  ascertain  the 
Middle  Terms,  or  reasons  on  which  these  Conclusions 
are  founded,  whether  they  precede,  or  follow  them. 
In  a  Logical  Analysis,  it  is  proper  to  notice  that 
which  proves;  and  to  separate  what  is  explanatory, 
from  that  which  is  illustrative. 

V.  Having  thus  throro uglily  examined  the  Epistle, 
its  component  parts  will  become  very  perceptible.  If 
there  be  an  Exordium  and  Conclusion,  a  separation 
must  take  place  between  them,  and  each  must  be  con- 
sidered by  itself.  Should  they  prove  to  be  twofold, 
partly  Doctrinal,  and  partly  Practical,  each  branch 

.  must  likewise  be  examined  apart. 

Since,  however,  this  species  of  Reading,  is,  pro- 
perly speaking,  confined  to  the  Letter  of  the  Word, 
let  us  guard  against  supposing  that  we  are  "  mighty 
in  the  Scriptures,"  if  we  be  more  solicitous  to  ana- 
lyze a  text,  than  concerned  about  understanding  and 
applying  it.  In  the  exercise  of  refined  subtilties,  and 
the  solution  of  difficult  passages,  we  may  lose  sight  of 


04  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRlPTUEi 

holy  Christian  simplicity,  and  sacrifice  the  edification 
of  ourselves  and  others:  for  when  the  rays  of  Truth 
are  divided,  they  cannot  act  with  so  much  life  and 
power,  as  when  its  energies  are  collected  together. 
May  the  reader  learn  not  to  abuse  this  branch  of 
Scripture  Exposition;  and,  in  the  sober  use  of  it,  may 
he  realize  its  excellencies! 


PART  II. 

Of  reading,  as  it  respects  the  spirit  of  the 

SCRIPTURES. 


CHAPTER  I. 

03?  EXPOSITORY  READING, 


Expository  Reading  of  the  Scriptures  has  reference 
to  the  Literal  Sense  purposed  by  the  Holy  Spirit ) 
and  its  object  is  to  develope  and  expound  it. 

We  say  "  Literal  Sense,"  in  order  to  distinguish 
it  from  the  seme  of  the  Letter,  as  conveyed  by  words 
in  their  proper  and  native  signification :  the  considera- 
tion of  which  belongs  to  Grammatical  Reading.  Thus,, 
in  that  portion  of  Holy  Writ, — u  Thou  shalt  not 
kill,"  the  sense  of  the  Letter  is,  that  we  should  not 
lay  violent  hands  on  any  person,  and  deprive  him  of 
life:  to  elicit  which,  appertains  to  Grammatical  Read- 
ing. 

We  added,  "  purposed  by  the  Holy  Spirit;"  for  it 
is  the  Literal  Sense  of  Scripture  which  the  Spirit 
purposes,  directly  or  indirectly,  to  declare,  Thus 
6 


Go  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

our  Saviour  shows  the  Literal  Sense  of  the  fifth  com- 
mandment, Matt.  v.  21,  22,  &x.  and  teaches  us,  that 
it  is  possible  to  break  this  commandment  in  lip,  in  life, 
in  gesture.  On  this  subject,  the  reader  may  consult 
Chemnitz  (Loci  Theologici,)  who  gives  twelve  admi- 
rable rules  for  ascertaining  the  Literal  Sense,  purpo- 
sed by  the  Holy  Spirit,  in  the  Decalogue. 

It  is  a  universal  axiom,  that — One  Word  or  Sen- 
tence having  respect  to  one  and  the  same  subject  has 
but  one  Literal  Sense  formally  purposed.  To  disco- 
ver this  one  and  true  meaning  of  the  Holy  Spirit  in 
the  Scriptures,  is  therefore  the  design  of  Expository 
Reading. 

In  treating  of  the  Literal  Sense,  we  must  distin- 
guish it  from  that  which,  by  means  of  natural  judg- 
ment or  genuine  helps  to  exposition,  may  be  compre- 
hended by  the  unregenerate ; — by  those  who  are  des- 
titute of  the  Spirit's  light.  Were  the  rules  proposed 
by  Chemnitz  for  expounding  the  Decalogue  (or  ra- 
ther, derived  by  him  from  a  collation  of  the  Scrip- 
tures,) rightly  understood  by  an  unrenewed  man,  even 
he  would  be  fully  satisfied  that  they  ascertained  the 
proper  and  genuine  meaning  of  the  commandments. 
This  apprehension  of  the  Literal  Sense,  ought  then 
to  be  carefully  distinguished  from  that  .sense  which  no 
one  can  apprehend,  unless  divinely  illuminated  by  the 
Spirit  who  speaks  in  the  Scriptures.  The  natural 
man  has  not,  it  is  evident,  anj  perception  of  tire  things 


EXPOSITORY  READING.  67 

of  the  Spirit  of  God;  and  Christ  has  declared,  that 
u  the  World  cannot  receive  the  Spirit  of  Truth." 
St.  Paul  also  observes,  that  "  spiritual  thinp^  are  spi- 
ritually discerned;"  that  is,  although  the  natural  man, 
(a  man  destitute  of  the  Spirit,)  may  speak  diffusely, 
on  the  Literal  Meaning  of  the  fifth  commandment,  and 
may  utter  truths  that  are  weighty,  and  consonant  to 
the  mind  of  the  Holy  Ghost;  yet  he  does  not  spiritu- 
ally discern  what  he  himself  advances;  he  does  not 
properly  conceive  of  that  genuine  love  to  our  neigh- 
bour flowing  from  faith,  which  is  enjoined  in  the  com- 
mandment instanced:  nor  of  that  spiritual  death  which 
they  must  inherit  who  foster  malice  against  ano- 
ther. None  can  know  this  but  by  experience :  a  truth 
which,  when  duly  considered,  removes  much  doubt  and 
perplexity. 

We  observed  further — "  to  develope  and  expound:" 
for  the  business  of  the  expositor  is  twofold;  namely, 
to  understand  aright  himself,  and  to  explain  the  true 
meaning  clearly  to  others  The  former  should  be  the 
main  object;  the  latter  partly  follows  of  itself,  and 
partly  derives  efficacy  from  method,  advice,  practice, 
and  experience. 

The  primary  requisite  for  Expository  Reading,  is 
an  acquaintance  with  the  branches  considered  in  Part 
I.  which  go  to  explain  the  Letter  of  Scripture,  and 
prepare  the  way  for  sound  exposition:  for  Expository 
Reading  is  understood  to  be  that  which  respects  the 


6b  i>TUJJV  Of  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

internal  evidence  (avT07ri$-icc)  of  the  Hebrew  and 
Greek  text,  and  which  aims  at  the  fuller  conviction 
both  of  ourselves  and  others. 

Hence,  it  supposes  that  simple  reading  of  the  Word 
which  every  Christian  should  practise,  though  he  be 
a  stranger  to  the  Original  Scriptures;  and  which  the 
first  Christians  used,  when  they  read  the  Epistles 
addressed  to  them.  As  a  friend  declares  his  will  by 
letter  to  his  friend,  who  ascertains  and  executes  that 
will  without  any  laboured  interpretations;  so,  and  with 
just  such  plainness,  does  the  Almighty  declare  his  will 
to  us  in  his  Word;  and  thus  did  the  Apostles  convey 
their  injunctions  to  the  primitive  Christians,  in  their 
Epistles;  by  which  the  latter  regulated  their  conduct, 
contented  with  the  simple  and  obvious  meaning,  and 
vmsolicitous  about  the  learned  and  prolix  expositions 
of  commentators. 

Further,  it  is  requisite  that  the  mind  aspire  not 
only  after  a  theoretical  and  historical,  but  after  a 
practical  and  spiritual  knowledge;  lest  the  Scrip- 
tures be  read,  as  the  works  of  Aristotle  would  be ; 
in  perusing  which,  we  are  satisfied  with  ascertain- 
ing the  meaning  through  the  medium  of  natural 
reason. 

It  now  remains,  to  supply  Helps,  partly  Inter- 
nal and  partly  External,  for  the  purpose  of  ascer- 
taining and  expounding  the  Literal   Sense.     Those 


EXPOSITORY  READING. 

of  the  former  character  merit  the  name  of  true  and 
genuine  expository  helps,  introducing  us  to  an  ac- 
quaintance with  those  things  which  relate  to  fnith  and 
eternal  life:  for  it  must  be  remembered  and  constantly 
enforced,  that  Scripture  is  its  own  interpreter,  and, 
therefore,  that  expository  helps  are  to  be  drawn  from 
its  own  pages.  With  respect  to  External  Helps  in- 
deed, they  either  are  confined  to  external  circum- 
stances, as  Rites,  Antiquities,  &c;  or  they  are  them- 
selves derived  from  Scripture,  or  Internal  Helps. 
Hence,  we  should  proceed  from  Helps  Internal  to 
Helps  External;  for  they  who  resort  immediately  to 
the  latter,  and  neglect  those  Helps  which  repose,  as 
it  were,  in  the  bosom  of  Holy  Writ,  will  apply  their 
exertions  and  their  time  to  no  useful  purpose,  and 
thus  pay  the  forfeit  of  such  idleness  and  indiscretion. 

Internal  Helps  are  General,  Special,  and  Par- 
ticular. 

I.  General  Helps  are  those  to  be  used  in  ex- 
pounding all  texts  of  Scripture.  They  are  the  fol- 
lowing: 

1.  A  Consideration  of  the  Scope;  and  in  order 
shat  this  Help  may  be  rightly  applied,  the  subsequent 
directions  must  be  observed. 

The  whole  Context,  and  sometimes  the  whole  Book, 
"must  be  studiously  perused,  before  we  attempt  an  ac- 
6* 


STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

curate  examination  of  any  particular  text.  This  was 
a  constant  practice  with  that  able  expositor,  Wolff- 
gang  Franzius.  See  the  preface  to  his  treatise  "  de 
Interpretatione  Scripturae  Sacrae." 

When  the  Scope  of  a  whole  Book,  or  even  of  any 
particular  Section,  is  given  by  the  Sacred  Writer  in 
express  words,  it  should  be  carefully  remarked.  Thus 
St.  John's  Gospel,  xx.  31. — "  These  are  written, 
/A  that  ye  might  believe  that  Jesus  is  the  Christ,  the 
"  Son  of  God;  and  that,  believing,  ye  might  have  life 
"  through  his  name.  Thus,  2  Peter,  iii.  1. — "  This 
u  second  epistle,  beloved,  I  now  write  unto  you;  in 
u  which  I  stir  up  your  pure  minds  by  way  of  remern- 
"  brance;  that  ye  may  be  mindful  of  the  words  which 
"  were  Spoken  before  by  the  holy  prophets,  and  of 
"  the  commandment  of  us  the  apostles  of  the  Lord 
u  and  Saviour."  Danhauerus  (Herm.  Sac.  p.  358.) 
judiciously  observes,  that  the  Title  sometimes  sug- 
gests the  Scope.  Thus,  the  beginning  of  the  book 
of  Proverbs: — "  The  proverbs  of  Solomon,  the  son 
u  of  David,  king  of  Israel ;  to  know  wisdom  and  in- 
u  struction;  to  perceive  the  words  of  understanding; 
u  to  receive  the  instruction  of  wisdom,  justice,  judg- 
u  ment,  and  equity;  to  give  subtilty  to  the  simple;  to 
;i  the  young  man,  knowledge  and  discretion." 

When  Inferences  are  properly  examined  and  com- 
pared together,  they  greatly  assist  in  ascertaining  the 
Scope.     Indeed,  they  either  evolve  it,  or  confirm  it 


ANALYTICAL  HEADING,  71 

when  developed,  by  some  very  decisive  expressions  of 
the  writer,  or  by  concurrent  circumstances. 

The  General  Scope  of  the  whole  section  or  book, 
must  be  gathered  from  the  whole  context.  In  doing 
this,  it  will  be  useful  to  examine  whether  the  text 
contain  any  account  of  the  reasons  which  occasioned 
the  book  or  section  to  be  written. 

A  Special  Scope  is  likewise  to  be  sought,  when 
there  is  a  Middle  Term  in  the  text,  referring  to  a  Con- 
clusion that  is  subordinate  to  the  proposition  and  prin- 
cipal argument  of  the  whole  book. 

The  Consideration  of  the  Scope  must  not  be  laid 
aside,  in  the  following  more  exact  examination  of  the 
text  itself:  for  if  we  wander  from  the  Scope,  we  mar 
all.     Vide  the  preceding  Chapter,  p.  60. 

Much  loss  of  time  would  be  prevented  at  this  junc- 
ture, if  a  friend,  accustomed  to  exposition,  were  brief- 
ly to  explain  and  demonstrate  the  Scope  of  every 
book;  which  is  a  point  of  eminent  utility. 

2.  A  Consideration  of  Antecedents ;  of  the  Matter 
(ingredientia ;)  and  of  Consequents.  By  the  Matter, 
we  mean  the  words  of  the  particular  text  under  exa- 
mination; with  which,  unless  Antecedents  and  Conse- 
quents be  carefully  collated,  they  cannot  be  fully  un- 
derstood. By  Antecedents  and  Consequents,  we 
mean  those  words  which  pertain  to  the  same  subject, 
in  the  same  context.  Hence,  if  a  book  consist  of  but 
one  subject  or  argument,  the  whole  of  it  must  be  re- 


STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

ferred  to  antecedents  and  consequents:  but,  if  it  be 
composed  of  various  arguments,  only  those  parts  are 
to  be  so  accommodated,  which  belong  to  one  and  the 
same  argument.  Thus,  if  1  Cor.  x.  16.  be  the  sub- 
ject of  inquiry,  the  Antecedents  and  Consequents  are 
chap.  8,  9,  and  10;  without  an  accurate  collation  of 
which,  we  can  form  no  solid  judgment  of  the  text  in 
question.  Franzius,  in  the  preface  to  his  book,  "  de 
Interpretatione  Scripturae  Sacrae,"  earnestly  recom^ 
mends  and  explains  this  branch  of  Exposition,  and  il- 
lustrates his  remarks  with  examples  from  Holy  Writ. 
See  also  Danhauerus  u  Herm.  Sac."  p.  360,  Sec. 

3.  A  Collation  of  the  passage  under  consideration 
writh  other  parallel  passages. 

A  Parallelism  is  either  real  or  verbal. 

A  verbal  parallelism  is  to  be  sought,  when  the 
words  are  attended  with  any  obscurity,  emphasis,  inv- 
propriety,  or  ambiguity.  To  this  belongs  the  use  of 
Verbal  Concordances,  as  those  of  H.  Stephens  and 
Schmidius  in  Greek,  that  of  Buxtorf  in  Hebrew;  and 
that  of  Noldius,  which  relates  to  Hebrew  Particles.  («) 

A  real  Parallelism  properly  appertains  to  Exposi-1 
tory  Reading,  and,  in  this,  some  aid  may  be  derived 
from  Real  Concordances.  But,  as  was  remarked, 
Chap.  II.  Page  46,  it  is  better  to  form  Concordances 
ourselves,  by  the  frequent  and  assiduous  perusal  of  the 
Scripture;  and  diligently  to  commit  the  Seats  of  sub* 
reels  to  memory. 


EXPOSITORY  READING. 

A  Parallelism  is  either  adequate  or  inadequate  . 
adequate^  when  it  affects  the  whole  subject  proposed 
in  the  text;  inadequate ,  when  it  affects  it  only  in  part. 
In  Expository  Reading,  the  former  is  to  be  decidedly 
preferred;  but  the  latter,  nevertheless,  merits  some 
attention,  since  a  paraphrase  lurnished  with  such  pa- 
rallelisms is  not  without  merit: — but  on  this  point,  we 
are  to  speak  more  fully  hereafter.  In  the  year  1682, 
John  Canne  published  an  English  Bible,  with  paral- 
lel passages  annexed  to  the  text  in  a  continued  series, 
for  the  purpose  of  showing  that  Scripture  is  the  best 
interpreter  of  itself.  It  would  be  well,  if  this  were 
added  to  all  our  bibles;  and  it  might  also  be  much  en- 
larged and  improved.  (6) 

A  Parallelism  may  be  sought  in  those  parts  which 
flow  from  the  text  by  way  of  consequence;  but  this  ra- 
ther appertains  to  Inferential  Reading  and  Practical 
Application. 

4.  The  Analogy  of  Faith.  This  Expository  help 
coincides  with  that  last  noticed.  They,  however^ 
differ  from  each  other,  first,  in  extent;  Verbal  Paral- 
lelism not  belonging  to  this  expository  help;  and,  se- 
condly, in  their  mode  of  comprehending;  for  in  the 
former  we  look  for  nothing  but  an  Exposition  of  a 
particular  passage,  but  in  the  latter  we  regard  the 
agreement  and  universal  harmony  of  the  Divine  Ora- 
cles. This  help  may,  however,  be  very  properly  viewed 
as  subordinate  to  the  preceding;  though,  deeming  it 


^\ 


SI  ODY  OF  THE  SCRlPTtiRES. 

of  high  import  to  use  it  skilfully,  we  have  assigned  a 
separate  consideration  to  it. 

In  the  exercise  of  this  help,  the  student  is  called 
to  guard  against  entertaining  a  false  idea  of  the  Ana- 
logy of  Faith.  It  is  a  false  idea,  when,  from  a  wrong 
interpretation  of  Scripture,  or  from  tradition,  we  im- 
bibe a  number  of  human  opinions;  and,  receiving  these 
as  the  genuine  doctrine  of  faith,  endeavour  to  interpret 
Scripture  agreeably  to  them.  On  this  principle,  the 
.Romish  Church  has  an  Analogy  of  Faith;  of  which, 
this  is  the  foundation. — a  I  believe  what  the  Churcb 
believes."  Here  a  circumlocution  becomes  necessa- 
ry: "  How  do  you  prove  that  this  is  the  sense  of 
Scripture?" — "  Because  the  Church  believes  it." 
a  Why  does  the  Church  believe  it?" — "  Because  the 
Scripture  asserts  it."  This  will  be  more  evident,  if 
we  advert  to  the  whole  system  of  Popery,  as  it  is  de- 
veloped, by  Puffendorf,  in  the  Appendix  of  his  u  In- 
Iroductio  in  Historiam,  and  by  Ferrarius  in  his  u  Eu- 
clides  Catholicus."  See  also  Kortholt's  treatise  "  de 
Canonc  Scripturae  Sacra?." 

On  such  grounds  as  these,  indeeed,  every  sect  may 
have  its  Analogy  of  Faith:  all  its  doctrines  terminating 
in  some  assumed  position,  so  that  its  partisans  may  not 
contradict  themselves.  When  persons  of  this  descrip- 
tion meet  with  passages  of  Scripture  that  they  cannot 
readily  explain,  consistently  with  their  hypothesis,  they 
Htrive  to  f?nlve  the  difficulty  by  that  Analogy  of  Faith, 


EXPOSITORY  READING,  H 

which  they  have  themselves  invented.  But,  allowing 
that  all  their  assumptions  were  founded  in  truth,  it  is 
by  no  means  consonant  with  the  principles  of  Divinity, 
to  interpret  Scripture  by  the  hypothesis  of  a  Church*, 
because  the  Sacred  Records  are  the  proper  mediums 
of  ascertaining  theological  truth. 

We  ought,  on  the  other  hand,  to  be  solicitous  that 
we  form  a  true  and  genuine  idea  of  the  Analogy  of 
Faith.  "  This  Analogy,"  says  Danhawer,  "  is  ex- 
"  planatory  of  the  harmony  and  perfect  consistency  of 
w  the  Divine  Oracles;  and  it  is  founded  on  the  univer- 
iC  sal  agreement  of  the  Inspired  Writers — the  mouth 
Ci  of  all  the  prophets."  See  Danhawer,  who  speaks 
largely  on  this  point;  and  compare  with  his,  the  brief, 
but  clear  and  perspicuous  observations  made  by  Pfeif- 
fer,  "  Herm.  Sac."  p.  168,  &c.(c) 

5,  A  Consideration  of  the  Affections.  When  this 
help  is  neglected,  the  Expositor  of  Scripture  must 
necessarily  err.  This  is  abundantly  shown  by  Luther, 
hi  various  parts  of  his  works;  by  Wolffgang  Franzius, 
in  his  treatise  "  de  Interpretatione  Scripturae  Sa- 
crae,"  who  expounds  it  by  a  portion  of  Holy  Writ; 
and  by  Flacius,  Danhauerus,  &c.  Daily  experience 
likewise  evinces,  that  familiar  discourse  derives  «luch 
of  its  energy  and  perspicuity  from  the  Affections  of 
the  speakers;  and  that  the  same  words,  pronounced 
under  the  influence  of  different  emotions,  convey  very 
different  meanings,    This  valuable  help  requires  a  se« 


7G  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

parate  consideration;  for  which,  see  the  Treatise  on 
the  affections  appended  to  this  work. 

6.  A  Consideration  of  the  Order  observed  by  the 
Sacred  Penmen  in  proposing  their  Subjects.  When 
this  help  is  judiciously  exercised,  it  opens  the  way  to 
a  deep  acquaintance  with  the  meaning  of  an  author; 
when  it  is  neglected,  many  things  necessarily  remain 
obscure  and  ambiguous.  By  duly  adverting  to  it,  how 
fully  intelligible  do  the  following  passages  become;  2 
Pet.  i.  5,  6,  7.  Rom.  v.  1,2,  3,  4,  5,  &c.  This 
help  indeed  merits  particular  attention;  though  it  is 
seldom  obvious  to  those  who  are  destitute  of  experi- 
ence in  divine  things. 

7.  A  Consideration  of  Circumstances; — Who? 
What?  Where?  By  what  means?  Why?  How?  Wlien? 
This  help  may  act  as  a  supplement  to  the  others ;  for, 
when  any  thing  is  neglected  that  tends  to  explain  and 
confirm  the  literal  meaning,  such  Circumstances  care- 
fully examined,  will  disclose  it.  It  is,  however,  better 
to  make  use  of  this  help  in  applying  all  the  others. 
See  Danhauerus  "  Hermen.  Sac."  p.  358. 

II.  Special  Helps  to  Exposition,  are  Rules  form- 
ed by  those  who  have  made  Scripture  their  study,  for 
the  purpose  of  assisting  in  the  interpretation  of  parti- 
cular texts,  or  in  the  exposition  of  particular  books. 
Hence,  they  are  of  two  kinds:  such  as  are  used  in  any 
part  of  Scripture  indifferently;  and  such  as  are  applied 


EXPOSITORY  READING.  77 

to  a  certain  description  of  writers,  or  to  the  expound- 
ing of  their  peculiar  subjects  and  texts ;  which  latter 
we  may  term  Particular  Helps. 

Rules  of  this  kind  may  be  learned  by  practice  in 
reading  the  Scriptures;  but  the  labours  of  others  will 
also  prove  useful/  "  Rules  formed  by  others/'  says 
Danhauerus  ("  Herm.  Sac."  p.  390)  are  not  to  be 
"  neglected.  They  are  like  the  counsels  of  a  courier 
"  who  has  finished  a  journey  which  we  are  about  to 
"  commence;  and  the  tendency  of  whose  instructions 
a  is  to  render  the  path  of  those  who  follow  less  ha- 
"  zardous  and  difficult."  Flacius  has  given  us,  in  the 
second  part  of  his  "  Clavis  Scripturae,"  a  collection 
of  rules,  composed  of  such  as  he  had  himself  remarked 
to  be  highly  useful  in  the  study  of  the  Scripture;  and 
of  others,  which  he  had  gleaned  from  the  writings  of  the 
Fathers.  Danhauerus  in  his  "  Herm.  Sac."  proposes 
the  following: 

1 .  The  most  simple  is  the  most  genuine  meaning. 

2.  The  literal  is  preferable  to  the  figurative  sense. 

3.  The  Scriptures  are  to  be  taken  in  their  widest 
signification,  when  they  are  not  limited  by  the  Holy 
Spirit;  especially  in  the  descriptions  that  are  given  of 
the  gracious  blessings  of  the  Gospel. 

4.  A  less  portion  of  Holy  Writ  must  be  interpreted 
agreeably  to  a  larger;  and  one  single  passage  is  not  to 

7 


rs  study  of  the  scbiptures. 

be  explained  in  contrariety  to  many  others,  but  cob* 
sistently  with  them. 

5.  The  Scriptures  sometimes  denominate  an  action 
or  thing  from  the  object  to  which  it  finally  refers. 

6.  The  Sacred  Writings  sometimes  affirm,  that  a 
thing  which  did  not  succeed,  was  neyer  done. 

7.  The  Scripture  often  accommodates  its  language, 
not  so  much  to  facts  as  they  exist,  as  to  the  opinions 
of  men  respecting  them. 

8.  What  is  said  of  Christ  in  the  Inspired  Volume, 
is  sometimes  understood  of  Him  alone,  as  the  Head 
of  the  Church;  sometimes  of  the  Body  only,  which  is 
the  Church;  and  sometimes  of  both  the  Head  and  the 
Body. 

9.  When  a  word  which  had  preceded,  is  repeated 
in  connexion  with  a  conditional,  or  some  similar  par- 
ticle, it,  in  the  latter  instance,  imports  an  Intention; 
so  that  what,  in  the  first  place,  is  said  to  be  done,  is, 
in  the  second,  said  to  have  been  done  resolutely,  on 
full  consideration.  Thus — "  What  I  have  written,  I 
have  written."  John  xix.  22. 

10.  The  name  "  Children"  is  not  always  indicative 
of  a  certain  age ;  but  is,  sometimes  an  expression  of 
love  and  tenderness.     See  John's  Episttes. 

11.  An  action  begun,  or  about  to  be  begun,  is 
sometimes  said  to  be  finished. 


EXPOSITORY  HEADINGS  T$ 

12.  A  thing  is  often  attributed  to  one  who  for- 
merly was  a  remarkable  example  of  any  action.  See 
Jude  11.  (d) 

Glassius  has  likewise  furnished  Rules  of  this  kind 
("  Philologia  Sacra,"  Book  2,)  and  there  are  many 
interspersed  in  the  Commentaries  of  Guierus,  Schmi- 
dius,  &c.  and  in  the  writings  of  the  Rabbins.  It  is, 
however,  an  easy  matter,  to  draw  up  rules  according 
to  some  assumed  hypothesis;  and,  therefore,  1.  Their 
authority  should  be  examined,  and  2.  They  must  al- 
ways be  applied  with  caution,  (e) 

III.  Particular  Helps  are  those  Rules  which 
Lave  been  made  for  the  purpose  of  interpreting  par- 
ticular  writers  and  books.  Glassius,  Flacius,  and 
others,  have  drawn  up  some  which  are  applicable  to 
Allegories,  Types,  Parables,  &c.  They  likewise  have 
some  profitable  thoughts,  in  reference  to  the  writings 
of  Paul,  John,  &c.  Danhauerus,  in  his  "  Herme- 
neutica  Sacra,"  presents  us  with  several  Canons  for 
the  elucidation  of  the  Prophets,  Psalms,  Types,  Pa- 
rable, and  Laws:  and  it  has  been  already  observed, 
that  Chemnitz  has  furnished  others  explanatory  of  the 
Decalogue.  On  such  principles,  Rules  might  be 
formed  for  the  Lord's  Prayer,  &c. 

Having  considered  Internal  Helps  according  to 
the  classification  of  General ^  Special*  and  Pafticu- 


80  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPT URES. 

lav j  we  proceed  to  offer  some  remarks  on  Helps  Ex- 
ternal. 

External  Helps  are  those  which  may  be  subor- 
dinate^ used,  in  more  clearly  ascertaining  and  ex- 
pounding the  sense  of  Scripture;  though  it  is  to  be 
observed,  that,  in  all  things  pertaining  to  eternal  sal- 
vation, the  Scriptures  sufficiently  explain  themselves. 

External  Helps  are  for  the  purpose  of  throwing 
light  on  certain  abstruse  passsages,  and  on  their  lite- 
ral sense:  as  Antiquities;  the  Rites  and  Customs  of 
the  ancients  (things  frequently  alluded  to  in  the  In- 
spired Writings;)  Geography,  Chronology,  Natural 
History,  &,c. ;  which,  through  the  goodness  of  God, 
have  been  respectively  treated,  by  men  mighty  in  the 
Scriptures,  in  order  to  their  elucidation.  (/) 

In  the  use  of  these  Helps,  both  deficiency  and  ex- 
cess are  blameable.  They  who  can  admire  nothing 
but  their  own  meditations,  and  know  not  how  to  make 
Externals  subservient  to  the  edification  of  themselves 
and  others,  do  most  certainly  commit  the  former  error; 
while  those  who  depend  on  the  authority  of  expositors 
alone,  and  receive,  as  infallible,,  whatever  pleases  the 
learned,  commit  the  latter  fault,  and  infringe  on  the 
privileges  of  the  Christian,  the  gifts  of  the  Spirit,  and 
the  full  assurance  (xXniftQtpiai)  of  faith.  They  are 
most  secure  who  take  the  middle  path;  who  neither 
rely  on  their  own  wisdom,  nor  are  fascinated  by  the 


EXPOSITORY  RBABIXti.  ffl 

authority  of  others;  but  learn  happily  to  conjoin  In- 
ternal with  External  Helps. 

Internal  Helps  must  be  decidedly  preferred  to  those 
which  are  External.  Indeed,  the  latter  are  rather  to 
be  used  in  authorising  and  confirming  the  sense  when 
it  is  discovered;  er  in  determining  it  when,  after  all 
Internal  Helps  have  been  exhausted,  it  remains  doubt- 
ful. Hence,  they  who  labour  through  vast  Com- 
mentaries, or  devote  their  time  to  the  purposes  of 
forming  selections,  and  digesting  them  into  common 
places,  will  make  but  small  advancement;  and  cannot 
reasonably  expect  to  attain  to  an  accurate  and  sound 
talent  for  interpreting  Scripture.  To  write  a  Com- 
ment is  one  thing;  but  to  develope  the  sense  of  the 
Sacred  Volume  is  another. 

Commentators  are  generally  diffuse  on  critical; 
polemical  ahd  common-place  subjects:  and  seldom 
examine  very  minutely  into  the  spiritual  sense  of 
Scripture.  We  must  therefore  be  careful  to  select 
such  Commentaries  as  are  most  agreeable  to  the  ob- 
ject we  have  in  view;  and  especially  such  as  evince  the 
illumination  of  that  Spirit  who  speaks  in  the  Sacretl 
Oracles.  This  is  essential ;  for  if  we  cannot  under- 
stand the  Scriptures,  without  the  aid  of  the  divine 
Spirit  who  dictated  them;  is  it  possible  to  derive  as- 
sistance from  a  Commentator  who  has  presumed  to 
judge  of  spiritual  things,  while  he  himself  is  car- 
mi?^) 


fe£  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES 

Some  valuable  remarks  on  this  subject,  by  Me- 
lanctLon,  deserve  to  be  noticed  here:  the  reader  may 
see  tbem  in  his  treatise  "  de  Origine  et  Auctoritate 
Verbi." — u  The  gift  of  interpretation  indeed,  be- 
longs not  to  the  ungodly,  but  is  with  that  assembly 
which  is  governed  and  sanctified  by  the  Holy  Spirit; 
for  St.  Paul  says — '  Let  the  prophets  speak  two  or 
three;  and  let  the  other  judge;  however,  if  any  thing 
be  revealed  to  another  that  sitteth  by,  let  the  first 
hold  his  peace.'  Interpretation  then  is  a  revelation 
made  by  the  Holy  Spirit,  and  since  the  ungodly 
are  the  organs  of  Satan,  it  cannot  be  made  in  them. 
Hence,  how  much  soever  some  men  may  excel  in 
learning  and  polity,  the  interpretation  of  Scripture 
appertains  not  to  them,  but  to  the  regenerate ;  be- 
cause the  natural  man  receiveth  not  the  things  of  the 
Spirit  of  God,  which  are  spiritually  discerned."  1 
Cor.  ii. 

Immediately  antecedent  to  this  remark,  Melancthon 
has  another:  "  When  the  ordinary  succession  and 
government  of  the  Church  were  enjoyed  by  blas- 
phemous, idolatrous,  and  ungodly  men,  God  raised  up 
Prophets  and  others,  who  were  not  in  the  order  of 
succession,  to  reprovet  he  sins  of  the  high  and  infe- 
rior priests.  This  is  evident,  as  it  respects  the  pro- 
phets Elijah,  Elisha,  Isaiah,  and  Amos;  whom  the 
Lord  endued  with  the  gift  of  interpretation,  at  a  pe- 
riod when  the  priests  were  enemies  to  the  Truth- 


EX  POSIT  ORY  READING.  &> 

So,  in  the  time  of  Christ,  the  gift  of  Interpretation 
was  not  possessed  by  Annas,  Caiaphas,  the  Scribes, 
and  the  Pharisees,  though  they  were  the  heads  of  the 
visible  Church,  and  considered  themselves  to  be  the 
only  true  Church  and  people  of  God.  The  gift  was, 
at  that  time,  confined  to  the  Church  and  assembly  of 
Zacharias,  Elizabeth,  the  Baptist,  the  Shepherds, 
Simeon,  Anna,  the  Apostles,  &c,  who  were  all  con- 
spicuous for  their  purity,  and  the  light  of  heavenly 
instruction.  It  therefore  becomes  our  duty  not  to 
listen  to  those  who,  for  the  sake  of  wealth  and  ho- 
nours, assume  the  right  of  interpretation,  without  be- 
ing themselves  influenced  by  the  knowledge  and  fear 
of  that  God;  who  as  the  sole  Author,  is  the  sole  In- 
terpreter of  Scripture;  and  who,  by  his  Spirit,  im- 
parts the  gift  to  those  only  who  are  pious,  renewed, 
and  lovers  of  the  Word." 

Caution  is  requisite  in  another  respect;  namely, 
lest  we  accumulate  External  things  without  measure; 
for  the  perusal  of  Scripture  is  too  easily  neglected, 
when  we  are  searching  after  many  and  various  Ex- 
ternal helps.  We  may  safely  assure  those  who  read 
the  word  with  devotion  and  simplicity,  that  they  will 
derive  more  light  and  profit  from  such  a  practice,  and 
from  connecting  meditation  with  it  (in  the  manner  so 
exquisitely  described  by  David,  Psal.  i.,)  than  can 
ever  be  acquired  from  drudging  through  an  infinite 
variety  of  unimportant  minutiae     They  who  search 


S-i       STUDY  OP  THE  SCRIPT URES. 

the  Scriptures  for  the  edification  of  themselves  and 
others,  and  not  for  the  sake  of  vanity,  or  to  please 
men,  will  learn,  from  what  has  been  advanced,  to 
avoid  the  abuse  of  External  things,  and  to  build  their 
knowledge  of  divine  truth,  on  foundations  firm  and 
immoveable. 

It  is  proper  to  observe  that  many  things  "  hard  to 
be  understood,"  which  will  occur  in  Expository 
Reading,  may  be  passed  over  until  a  greater  proficien- 
cy has  been  made  in  spiritual  wisdom.  They  who 
observe  no  medium,  but  seek  to  know  every  thing  at 
once,  are  urged  by  this  insatiable  and  irrational  itch 
for  knowledge,  among  a  crowd  of  Commentators,  and 
there  they  remain.  They  inconsiderately  perplex 
their  minds;  add  to  the  difficulties  with  which  the 
pursuit  of  knowledge  is  attended;  and,  after  all,  re- 
main ignorant  of  the  "  truth  which  is  after  godli- 
ness." In  Expository  Reading,  every  one  must  con- 
sider his  own  strength.  A  skilful  architect  first  lays 
the  foundation;  but  he  does  not  immediately  super- 
add the  roof;  and  that  student  will  ever  make  the 
most  progress  who,  rising  from  less  to  greater  points; 
and  from  the  more  easy  to  the  more  difficult,  moves 
on  in  regular  and  happy  gradation. 

When  the  Literal  Sense  is  ascertained,  some  give 
it  1.  In  a  succinct  Paraphrase;  others,  2.  In  a  pro- 
lix Exposition. 


EXP<  READING 

I.  A  Paraphrase  may  be  cither  Historical  or 
Textual.  The  former  pursues  the  argument  of  a 
book  historically,  and  aims  at  giving  the  sense  and 
meaning  of  the  Writer  in  perspicuous  language;  the 
latter  assumes  the  Person  of  the  Writer,  accom- 
panies the  text  at  the  bottom  of  the  page,  and  gives 
all  phrases  and  expressions,  in  words  that  are  sim- 
ple and  obvious. 

In  order  to  render  a  Textual  Paraphrase  just^  five 
things  are  requisite: 

1 .  The  Literal  Sense  must  be  fully  known. 

2.  All  Propositions  that  are  contained  in  the  text, 
whether  they  be  expressed  or  implied,  must  be  ex- 
plicitly and  separately  considered;  lest  any  thing  in 
the  text  should  be  neglected. 

3.  Instead  of  the  more  obscure,  emphatic,  and  am- 
biguous words,  contained  in  the  propositions  formed 
from  the  text,  others  should  be  substituted  of  a  de- 
finite and  obvious  signification.  The  Emphasis  may 
also  be  more  fully  shown. 

4.  Those  which  admit  of  it,  may  be  expressed  in 
the  clearer  words  of  Scripture  itself;  this  alone  is 
always  equivalent  to  copious  Annotations. 

5.  These  Propositions  thus  explained,  must  be 
connected  together,  by  means  of  copulative,  casual, 
and  conclusive  particles,  as  the  context  may  happen 
to  require. 


80  STUDY  OF  THE  SCR1TPTURES. 

II.  The  prolix  Exposition  of  the  text  chiefly  re* 
spects  the  Analysis  of  it,  and  unites  Logical  with 
Expository  Reading.  If  therefore  we  institute  these 
Readings  aright,  we  shall  have  no  cause  to  complain 
either  of  the  order,  or  of  the  matter.  We  ought 
however  be  tenacious  of  the  natural  order,  unless 
there  be  good  grounds  for  deviation, 


©OCTRINAL  READING  S7 

CHAPTER  II. 

OF  DOCTRINAL  BEADING. 


Doctrinal  Reading  is  that  by  which  we  so  appre* 
hend  the  truths  contained  in  Scripture,  as  to  derive 
thence  a  just  and  saving  acquaintance  with  the  na* 
ture  and  will  of  God. 

It  supposes  in  the  person  who  institutes  it,  the  sub* 
sequent  requisites. 

1.  A  Knowledge  of  Exposition;  for  without  Ex* 
position,  Divinity  rests  on  an  uncertain  foundation, 
since  uo  Proposition  can  otherwise  be  resolved  into  its 
first  principles. 

2.  The  Faculty  of  judging  of  the  Scope,  and  of 
theological  doctrines  spiritually  (1  Cor.  ii>  15;)  and 
not  naturally,  as  the  dogmas  of  Aristotle  would  be 
considered.  Hence,  this  Reading,  to  be  instituted 
in  a  consistent  and  profitable  manner,  requires  that 
the  reader  be  spiritual.  Augustine  remarks  with 
the  greatest  truth,  that,  "  in  the  Scriptures,  our 
eyes  see  with  more  or  less  clearness,  according  as 
we  die  more  or  less  to  this  present  world;  and,  on 
(he  contrary,  in  proportion  as  we  live  to  this  worlda 


H  STUDY  Oh  THE  SCRlPTUKKb. 

we  do  not  discern  .spiritual  things."     See  Book  II,. 
C.  7.  "  de  Doctrina  Christiana."(a) 

3.  A  Disposition  to  reduce  the  Doctrines  of  Scrip- 
ture to  practice:  for  the  Saviour  says — u  If  any  man 
will  do  the  will  of  him  (that  sent  me,)  he  shall  know 
of  the  doctrine,  whether  it  be  of  God:  or  whether  I 
speak  of  myself."  John  vii.  17. 

4.  A  high  Esteem  for  divine  Truth,  as  that  which  is 
to  be  defended  against  assaults  by  the  (to  yeypcmTctt) 
"thus  it  is  written;" — to  be  sought  in  its  proper 
Seat,  if  not  with  anxious  care,  yet  certainly  with  the 
greatest  assiduity;— -and  to  be  confirmed  by  sound  ar- 
gument, and  canvassed  with  deep  attention,  in  order 
that  its  purity  may  be  protected  against  every  inno- 
vation. Unless,  therefore,  we  reduce  the  precepts 
of  Scripture  to  practice,  mere  intellect  will,  in  these 
respects,  avail  nothing. 

These  things  being  premised,  we  observe,  that  in 
order  to  a  right  institution  of  Doctrinal  Reading,  the 
particulars  following  must  be  attended  to : 

1.  The  Argument  of  the  whole  Book  and  its  Gen- 
eral Scope  (on  which  every  thing  else  depends)  should 
be  duly  weighed. 

2.  The  Principal  Doctrine  of  the  whole  Argu- 
ment, is  to  be  accurately  formed  in  the  words  of  the 
Sacred  Writers. 


DOCTBINAL  READING.  89 

3.  The  Special  Doctrines  must  be  pointed  out,  and 
the  mode  in  which  they  arise  out  of  the  Principal 
Doctrine. 

4.  The  doctrines  expressed  must  be  distinguished 
from  those  which  are  implied:  the  former  are  to  be 
particularly  noted;  and  the  latter  are  to  be  confirms 
from  passages  where  they  are  expressed, 

5.  The  Law  and  the  Gospel  should  be  rightly  dis- 
tinguished, and  the  things  appertaining  to  each,  accu- 
rately separated;  because  they  constitute  the  princi- 
pal classes  of  theological  doctrines. 

In  order  to  illustrate  these  points  by  example,  let 
us  advert  to  St.  Paul's  Epistle  to  the  Ephesians 
Here  we  have — 

1.  The  General  Scope  of  the  apostle;  namely,  to 
conciliate  the  minds  of  Jewish  and  Gentile  converts, 
and  to  confirm  both  in  the  purity  of  the  faith  in  Christ 
Jesus,  as  well  as  in  holiness  of  life. 

2.  The  Principal  Doctrines:  see  Chap.  ii.  11, 
12,  13;  and  also  19,  20;  and  Chap.  iii.  6. 

3.  The  Special  Doctrines;  which  are  the  six  fol- 
lowing. 1 .  God  constituted  the  Jews  his  own  peo- 
ple, promised  them  Christ,  and  eternal  life  in  Him. 
2.  The  Jews  possess  this  prerogative^  that  they  first 
hoped  in  Christ.  3.  The  salvation  of  the  Gentiles 
flows  from  mercy,  through  the  grace  of  Jesus  Christ, 

8 


90  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

4.  Our  salvation  depends  not  on  the  righteousness  of 
works;  but,  on  mere  grace.  5.  The  way  of  salva- 
tion, as  it  respects  both  Jews  and  Gentiles,  is  the 
same.  6.  None,  but  those  who  are  justified,  can 
perform  good  works. 

4.  The  Doctrine  Implied;  thus  (Chap.  ii.  12,) 
the  state  of  the  Gentiles,  antecedent  to  their  conver- 
sion to  Christ,  was  a  state  of  condemnation.  This 
is  Expressed,  Rom.  Chap.  i. 

5.  The  Law  contains  things  to  be  done;  the  Gos- 
pel, things  to  be  believed:  the  entire  foundation  of 
this  epistle  is  therefore  evangelical.  However 
throughout  the  whole  of  it,  the  general  Application 
relates  to  the  Law,  so  far  as  it  is  observed  by  believ- 
ers.— See  also  the  Analysis  of  the  Epistle  to  the 
Ephesians  appended  to  this  work. 

The  Doctrinal  Books,  such  as  the  Epistles  of  the 
New  Testament,  should  especially  be  perused,  be- 
cause they  peculiarly  abound  in  Expressed  Doctrines; 
and  because  the  Doctrines  are  ascertained  with  ease 
in  these  parts  of  Holy  Writ. 

The  consideration  of  the  abstruser  Doctrines  may 
be  deferred,  until  the  student  have  made  greater  ad- 
vances in  the  knowledge  of  fundamental  truth.  Those 
which  are  most  essential  to  salvation  and  to  a  full  as- 
surance (irlypoQoptu)  of  faith,  should  be  first  learned 
by  a  living  and  practical  acquaintance  with  them;  and^ 


DOCTRINAL  REAL"  i)t 

tnen,  the  transition  to  Doctrines  more  profound,  but 
less  essential,  will  become  pleasant  and  easy. 

When  Doctrines  are  well  known,  they  may  be  di- 
gested into  a  certain  order,  which  must  nevertheless 
comport  with  the  subject,  and  the  intention  of  the 
Holy  Spirit.  All  of  them  may  be  referred  to  God, 
to  man,  or  to  Christ  the  Mediator  between  both. 

Since  Jesus  is  the  very  Soul  of  Scripture,  and  the 
Way  by  which  we  have  access  to  the  Father,  he  who, 
in  Doctrinal  Reading,  does  not  fix  his  eyes  on  Him, 
must  read  in  vain.  Truth  and  Life  are  attainable  only 
through  this  Way.  To  know  Christ  and  the  Doc- 
trines concerning  Christ,  only. in  theory,  is  not  the 
Soul  of  Scripture;  it  is  faith  in  him,  and  that  imita- 
tion of  him  which  flows  from  faith. — It  is,  however,  to 
be  remarked,  that  some  texts  treat  expressly  of  Christ, 
and  inculcate  either  faith  in  him,  or  the  imitation  of 
him;  some  contain  prophecies  concerning  the  Sa- 
viour, fulfilled,  or  remaining  to  be  fulfilled;  others 
exhibit  a  type  and  figure  of  Christ;  while  others  are 
to  be  referred  to  him  by  the  Analogy  of  Faith,  which, 
as  to  all  the  articles  of  faith,  is  entirely  founded  on 
him: 


91  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES, 

CHAPTER  III. 

OF  INFERENTIAL  READING, 

Inferential  Reading  has  for  its  object,  the  dedu- 
cing; of  Inferences  or  Conclusions  by  legitimate  con- 
sequence, from  texts;  when  the  Literal  Sense  is  ex- 
plored, and  the  Truths  expressed  have  been  fully  exa- 
mined. These  Inferences  may  be  either  theoretical 
and  mediately  practical ;  or,  they  may  be  immediately 
practical. 

The  foundation  of  this  Reading  is  the  perpetual 
analogy  and  harmony  of  things  sacred;  which  is  such, 
that,  from  one  truth  rightly  known,  all  others  depend, 
being  linked,  as  it  were,  together.  He  who  keeps 
this  in  mind,  and  is  versed  in  the  Sacred  Oracles,  may 
easily  diffuse  himself )  from  one  word,  over  the  whole 
Scriptures. 

It  is  essential  to  a  right  institution  of  this  Read- 
ing, that  the  mind  be  endued  with  a  living  knowledge 
and  "  form  (virorvTracns)  of  sound  words  in  faith  and 
love."  It  cannot  otherwise  be  prosecuted  in  a  con- 
sistent and  profitable  way,  nor  can  the  inexhaustible 
fulness  of  the  sacred  text  be  else  perceived.  Experi- 
ence, will,  however,  suggest  every  thing  necessary  to 
them  who  prosecute  Inferential  Reading. 


INFERENTIAL  READING,  95 

The  Sources  whence  Inferences  are  drawn  are 
either  themselves  Inherent  in  the  text; — or  External; 
that  is,  taken  from  other  parts  of  Scripture,  and  col- 
lated with  that  under  consideration. 

Sources  are  Inherent,  when  Inferences  are  de- 
duced as  follows: 

1.  From  the  Words,  and  their  Emphasis: 

2.  From  the  Structure  and  Order  of  the  things 
contained  in  the  text. 

3.  From  the  Affections  of  the  Sacred  Writer. 

Sources  are  External,  when  a  collation  of  the 
text  is  instituted — 1.  With  the  Scope;  2.  With  An- 
tecedents and  Consequents;  and,  3.  With  Parallel 
Passages*  The  consideration  of  Circumstances — 
who?  what?  where?  does  not  so  much  constitute  a  new 
Source,  as  yield  a  more  favourable  opportunity  of 
drawing  inferences  from  other  Sources. 

If  there  be  different  kinds  of  Inferences,  these 
Sources  may  be  differently  applied.  Indeed,  some 
Inferences  are  profitable  for  doctrine;  others,  for  in- 
struction ;  others,  for  reproof;  and  others,  for  comfort. 
Some  are  useful  to  confirm  faith;  others,  to  elicit  love 
from  faith;  and  others,  to  nourish  hope.  Some  have 
respect  to  piety  grounded  on  faith,  hope,  and  love; 
8* 


94  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES, 

others  instil  holy  wisdom;  and  others  inculcate  sacred 
eloquence.  Some  are  theoretical,  and  only  virtually 
practical;  while  others  are  in  themselves  formally 
practical. 

Let  us  cite  an  example  from  2  Tim.  i.  1. — "  Be 
not  thou  therefore  ashamed  of  (lie  testimony  of  out 
Lord  nor  of  me  his  prisoner;  bid  be  thou  partaker  of 
the  afflictions  of  the  Gospel." — Observe  here,  it  is 
taken  for  granted,  that  the  Literal  Sense  of  this  pas- 
sage, and  the  truths  expressed  in  it,  are  sufficiently 
obvious  to  the  reader.  It  is  supposed  that  he  is  aware 
of  the  two-fold  proposition  which  it  contains,  the  one 
negative,  and  the  other  affirmative ;  that  the  former 
has  a  two-fold  object,  real  and  personal ;  and  that,  by 
force  of  opposition,  the  latter  no  less  respects  this  two- 
fold object  than  the  former. 


Inferences  deduced  from  the  first  Inherent  Source. 

u  Be  not  thou  ashamed." — In  times  of  persecu- 
tiori,  Boldness  is  required  in  our  testimony  of  Christ. 
Again — It  is  not  the  least  step  towards  apostacy, 
when  a  man  is  ashamed  of  the  testimony  of  Christ; 
for,  thus,  the  Spirit  of  courage  with  which  believers 
are  endued,  is  denied. 

"  The  testimony."—- Boldness  of  confession  is  in- 


INFERENTIAL  READING.  Q5 

fcreased,  in  no  small  degree,  by  the  consideration  that 
we  are  witnesses,  and  not  the  first  confessors:  we 
having  iC  a  cloud  of  witnesses."    Heb.  xii.  1. 

"  Of  our  Lord." — He  who  is  ashamed  of  the  Gos- 
pel, is  ashamed  of  the  Lord  himself,  and  completely 
denies  that  he  is  His  servant.  Again — Since  we  have 
a  Lord  in  heaven,  we  need  not  fear  earthly  lords. 

"  Prisoner." — It  is  not  Christian  but  diabolical 
prudence,  to  pay  regard  to  Christ's  members,  while 
they  enjoy  outward  prosperity,  and  to  be  ashamed  of 
them  in  seasons  of  persecution. 

"  His." — The  bonds  and  wounds  of  Christians, 
are  the  bonds  and  wounds  of  Christ.  Again — A 
Christian  in  bonds,  is  not  the  servant  of  man,  but  of 
Christ. 

"  Be  thou  partaker  of  the  afflictions." — Fellow- 
ship in  afflictions  is  consolatory,  on  account  of  ap- 
proaching fellowship  in  glory;  for,  in  the  Gospel,  all 
Christians  labour  together.  Again — He  who  preach- 
es the  Gospel  without  afflictions,  is  far  removed  from 
the  example  of  the  apostle. 

"  Of  the  Gospel." — The  Gospel  proclaims  eternal 
joys  in  the  midst  of  calamities. 


06  STUDY  OP  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

Inferences  deduced  from  the  second  Inherent  Source. 

A  consideration  of  the  two-fold  Proposition  tend- 
ing to  the  same  Scope,  evolves  the  Inference,  that 
He  who  is  ashamed  of  the  testimony  of  Christ,  is  de- 
sirous of  avoiding  impending  afflictions,  though  he 
may  endeavour  to  palliate  his  fear  by  the  most  spe- 
cious arguments.  Again  Apostacy  is  so  much  to  be 
deprecated,  that  we  must  not  only  carefully  watch 
against  the  fear  of  afflictions:  but,  lest  we  should 
apostatize,  the  mind  ought  to  be  constantly  prepared 
to  undergo  them  with  alacrity. 

From  a  consideration  of  the  two-fold  Object,  placed 
thus — "  Be  not  thou  ashamed  of  the  testimony  of  our 
Lord,  nor  of  Me,  his  prisoner" — it  follows,  that  he 
who  is  ashamed  of  suffering  Christians,  is  ashamed  of 
the  testimony  of  the  Lord  himself. 

The  implied  opposition  of  this  object  in  the  word 
a  Gospel,"  authorizes  the  Inference,  that — He  who 
avoids  the  afflictions  which  result  from  the  faithful 
preaching  of  the  Gospel,  is  ashamed  both  of  Christ 
and  his  holy  servants. 


Inferences  deduced  from  the  third  Inherent  Source. 
The  hope  and  confidence  which  the  apostle  lias  in 


INFERENTIAL  HEADING.  9? 

the  Gospel  is  so  great,  that  he  not  only  stands  in  no 
need  of  consolation  himself,  though  now  cast  into  a 
prison:  but  he  can  even  urge  others  to  witness  for 
Christ.  Hence  we  infer,  that  The  Spirit  of  God  in- 
spires believers  with  such  courage  and  magnanimity, 
that  they  rise  above  the  dread  of  bonds;  and,  when 
cast  into  prison,  seek  not  those  external  comforts 
which  man  can  impart,  but  abound  in  strong  inward 
consolations,  and  become  a  source  of  encouragement 
and  joy  to  those  who  are  weak.  Again — Paul's  love 
to  Christ  is  so  ardent,  that  he  not  only  bears  testimo- 
ny of  him  in  word,  but  retains  this  boldness  in  cir- 
cumstances the  most  adverse.  He  will  be  faithful 
even  unto  bonds  and  death;  and,  in  short,  he  exer- 
cises the  utmost  care,  lest  his  bonds  should  shake  any 
in  their  attachment  to  the  Saviour,  and  in  the  profes- 
sion of  their  faith.  Hence  arise  the  subsequent  In- 
ferences : 

1.  Christ  must  be  loved  sincerely. 

2.  Sincerity  is  evidenced  by  bearing  testimony  of 
Christ.     ' 

3.  Our  testimony  of  Christ  is  to  be  borne,  not  only 
in  prosperous  times,  but  likewise  in  seasons  of  ad- 
versity. 

4.  We  ought  not  to  be  confounded  or  ashamed,  if 
our  testimony  of  Christ  be  rejected 


STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

5.  To  be  imprisoned  for  the  name  of  the  Saviour, 
is  a  glorious  evidence  that  our  testimony  of  him  is 
sincere  and  constant. 

6.  We  ought  not  to  be  deterred  from  confessing 
Christ,  because  others  have  shrunk  from  the  duty. 

7.  Love  to  Jesus  should  possess  such  influence 
over  the  soul,  that,  were  it  to  expose  us  to  the  se- 
verest calamities,  and  to  inevitable  death,  we  should 
remain  unmoved  (1  Cor.  xv.  58.  Col.  i.  23.)  and 
even  unabashed. 

8.  Firm  faith  derives  so  much  strength  from  love  to 
the  Saviour,  that  it  renders  us  careless  of  ourselves,  in 
seasons  of  affliction,  and  only  anxious  that  none  be  turn- 
ed aside  from  the  right  way.  Vide  1  Thess.  iii.  1 — 5. 

Again,  Paul  was  actuated  by  so  fervent  a  desire  of 
fulfilling  his  apostolic  office,,  in  proclaiming  the  Gos- 
pel, that  he  preached  Christ  even  to  bonds;  and  now 
that  he  was  imprisoned  and  enjoyed  less  liberty  of 
speech,  he  incited  others  by  his  letters,  to  bear  their 
testimony  of  Christ  without  fear.  (Compare  Chap, 
ii.  Ver.  2.)  Hence  we  deduce  the  following  Infer- 
ences: 

1 .  A  minister  should  make  use  of  his  utmost  exer- 
tions in  fulfilling  his  office. 

2.  A  minister  who  abandons  his  rare  for  thp  cl 


INFERENTIAL  READING.  99 

when  men  oppose  obstacles  and  hindrances,  does  not 
fulfil  his  duty. 

3.  A  faithful  minister,  when  restrained  by  perse- 
cution from  preaching,  casts  his  eyes  on  others  who 
do  not  fear  to  have  fellowship  in  suffering;  or,  who 
seem  ready  to  turn  aside ;  &,c. 


Inferences  deduced  from  the  first  External  Source. 

The  text  may  be  accommodated  to  the  General 
Scope  of  the  whole  epistle  or  book.  The  General  Scope 
of  the  epistle  to  Timothy  is  as  follows.  Paul  wish- 
ing Timothy  to  come  to  him,  endeavours  previously 
to  prepare  and  fortify  his  mind  against  the  calamities 
which,  at  that  period  threatened  the  church  at  Ephe- 
sus,  and  especially  that  at  Rome.  Here,  if  we  con- 
sider the  Subject,  the  following  Inferences  are  dedu- 
cible, 

1 .  Calamities  often  happen  to  Christians  suddenly 
(not  however  by  chance,  but  in  the  gracious  provi- 
dence of  God.) 

2.  When  calamity  befals  Christians  suddenly,  it  is 
possible  for  them  to  be  cast  down  from  their  stead- 
fastness. 

3.  They  should  therefore  be  seasonably  warned  of 


luo  STUDV  OF  THE  SCJUFTUKES 

it,  by  those  experienced  Christians  who  foresee  its 
approach. 

4.  When  thus  warned,  they  are  better  able  to  com- 
pose their  minds,  in  order  to  meet  the  impending  ca- 
lamity. 

If  we  advert  to  the  person  of  Paul,  the  following 
Inferences  are  deducible. 

1 .  It  is  right  for  a  minister  to  call  fellow-labourers 
to  his  assistance,  not  only  in  prosperous  times,  but 
also  in  seasons  of  adversity. 

2.  It  is,  however,  incumbent  on  him  not  to  do  this 
precipitately,  but  carefully  to  prepare  for  the  events 
which  seem  about  to  take  place. 

3.  It  is  also  his  duty  to  fortify  the  mind  of  the 
person  whom  he  intends  to  call. 

4.  If  he  should  perceive  any  thing  in  himself,  that 
is  likely  to  offend  the  weaker  mind  of  the  other  whom 
he  purposes  to  call,  or  to  deter  him  from  affording  the 
necessary  assistance,  it  becomes  his  part  seasonably  to 
anticipate  and  remove  the  scruples,  which  the  other 
may  possibly  imbibe. 

If  we  advert  to  the  Person  of  Timothy,  we  may 
derive  the  subsequent  Inferences. 

1.  A  minister  ought  neither  to  accelerate  this  de- 


INFERENTIAL  READING.  m 

parture  from  his  own  church,  nor  defer  going  to  ano- 
ther, through  fear  of  calamities. 

2.  He  ought  to  fortify  his  mind  against  such  cala- 
mities, in  order  that  he  may  be  "  a  workman  that 
needeth  not  to  be  ashamed."  2  Tim.  ii.  15. 

3.  The  danger  of  others  ought  not  to  intimidate 
him,  but  render  him  cautious  and  prudent;  and  ra- 
ther create  in  his  bosom,  a  like  readiness  to  endure 
sufferings. 

With  reference  to  this  Source,  we  might  likewise 
consider  the  church  at  Ephesus  from  which  Timothy 
was  summoned,  and  that  at  Rome,  to  confirm  which 
was  the  object  of  his  being  called;  and,  thence,  de- 
duce many  Inferences  concerning  the  dismissal  of  mi- 
nisters from  a  church,  and  their  call  to  one. 

The  words  of  the  text  may  also  be  separately  ac-* 
commodated  to  the  Scope;  and,  thence,  Inferences 
theoretical  and  practical,  will  be  deduced,  in  the  fol- 
lowing manner. 

"  Be  not  thou  ashamed." — Paul  hastened  Timo- 
thy, but  he  pre-required  of  him,  boldness.  Hence,  a 
minister  can  promise  himself  little  or  no  assistance 
from  a  fellow-labourer  who  is  not  possessed  of  spiri- 
tual boldness;  since,  through  fear  of  shame  and  im- 
9 


102  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

prisonment,  such  a  one  will  impede,  rather  than  acce- 
lerate the  course  of  the  word  of  God. 

"  The  testimony." — Paul  had  borne  his  testimo- 
ny, and,  now  that  he  was  a  prisoner,  he  continued  to 
bear  it;  yet  he  required  the  testimony  of  Timothy. 
Hence,  it  is  not  of  small  consequence,  that  the  testi- 
mony of  God's  servants  be  multiplied. 

"  Of  the  Lord." — It  is  a  servant  of  the  Lord  that 
summons,  but  he  summons  to  the  business  of  the  Lord. 
Hence,  we  must  listen  to  the  voice  of  the  Lord's  ser- 

•  vants,  especially  if  it  concern  not  human  convenience  ? 
but  the  Lord's  glory. 

u  Our." — Paul  and  Timothy  were  both  the  ser- 
vants of  Jesus  Christ.  Phil.  i.  1.  Hence,  they  who 
have  one  common  Lord,  and  are  engaged  in  one  com- 
mon service,  may  mutually  stir  up  each  other  to  seek 
their  Lord's  glory;  which  is  to  be  promoted  by  uni- 

*ty,  &c. 

The  Special  Scope  cannot  here  be  sought  in  ante- 
cedents, because  the  Special  Inference  is  contained  in 
this  verse;  and,  therefore,  the  antecedent  words  have 
reference  to  the  proposition  expressed  in  this  verse, 
as  to  the  Special  Scope;  just  as  any  middle  term  is 
referred  to  its  own  conclusion.  With  respect  to  con- 
sequents, the  proposition  itself  is  as  a  Special  Scope; 


INFERENTIAL  RE  ADING.  103 

and  the  things  which  might  be  considered  here,  recur 
in  the  following  Source. 


Inferences  from  the  second  External  Source. 

Here  we  may  again  institute  a  general,  special, 
and  particular  collation  and  deduction  of  Inferences. 

If  the  text  form  one  perfect  subject,  it  may  be  col- 
Mated  with  the  antecedents  and  consequents.  The 
whole  epistle  is  of  one  subject;  and,  therefore  per- 
tains to  antecedents  and  consequents.  Thus,  St. 
Paul's  first  exhortation  is,  to  undergo  afflictions  for 
the  cause  of  Christ.  This  he  endeavours  to  enforce 
by  very  cogent  arguments;  and  he  frequently  repeats 
it,  with  the  addition  of  new  .arguments,  throughout 
the  whole  epistle.  Hence  flow  the  following  Infer- 
ences. 

1 .  A  subject  of  great  importance  is  not  to  be  treat- 
ed indifferently. 

2.  If  danger  of  apostacy  threaten  even  the  esta- 
blished Christian,  it  should  be  guarded  against  with 
the  utmost  care. 

3.  He  who  is  bound  to  invite  another  to  undergo 
hardships  for  the  cause  of  Christ,  is  also  bound  to  use 
wisdom,  in  fortifying  him  against  fear;  and  diligence 


104  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

in  enjoining  on  Lira  the  necessity  of  enduring  such 
hardships. 

A  special  collation  may  be  instituted,  by  separately 
collating  the  entire  text  with  entire  verses  antecedent 
and  consequent.  From  an  immense  number  of  In- 
ferences that  might  be  deduced,  we  present  the  fol- 
lowing, which  result  from  a  collation  with  the  ante- 
cedent verse  7. 

1 .  Before  we  animate  a  combatant  to  engage  in  the 
holy  war,  we  should  put  arms  into  his  hands. 

2.  Unless  the  Spirit  of  God  prepare  the  heart,  we 
vainly  attempt  to  animate  by  words. 

3.  A  fearful  heart  is  not  capable  of  the  testimony 
of  Christ,  nor  of  enduring  afflictions  for  the  promotion 
of  the  Lord's  glory. 


Inferences  deduced  from  Collation  ivith  verse  6. 

1 .  The  gift  which  a  minister  of  a  church  may  have 
received  from  God^Ss  to  be  stirred  up,  in  order  not 
only  to  teach,  but  also  to  suffer. 

2.  He  who  permits  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of 
the  presbytery,  ought  to  suffer,  if  it  be  the  will  of 
Providence,  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the  civil 
officer* 


INFERENTIAL  BEADING.  105 

Inference ,  from  Collation  with  verse  5. 

Faith  received  from  ancestors,  and  steadily  pre- 
served, may,  when  brought  to  remembrance  in  a  sea- 
son of  persecution,  happily  prevent  apostacy. 


Inference j  from  Collation  ivith  verse  4. 

The  godly,  though  surrounded  by  calamities,  and 
expecting  nothing  but  affliction,  can  nevertheless  re- 
joice, and  enjoy  the  most  delightful  communion  with 
each  other. 


Inference j  from  Collation  ivith  verse  3, 

We  ought  to  offer  up  prayers  night  and  aay,  in  be- 
half of  those  who  are  about  to  suffer  for  the  testimony 
of  Jesus. 

The  above  Inferences  all  flow  from  Antecedents, 
and  if  we  now  advert  to  Consequents,  we  shall  find 
that  a  similar  abundance  is  deducible  from  them. 


Inference,  from  Collation  with  verse  9. 

When  our  salvation  and  the  grace  of  God  are 
9* 


206  STUDY  OP  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

called  to  remembrance,  they  dispel  all  fear  of  tempo* 
ral  affliction. 


Inference ,  from  Collation,  with  verse  10, 

Greater  boldness  in  affliction,  should  be  evidenced 
under  the  New  Testament  dispensation,  because 
Christ  has  really  appeared;  and,  thus,  confirmed  our 
faith  in  his  passion,  resurrection,  &*c. 

A  Particular  Collation  is  when  the  several  Words 
of  the  text,  as  far  as  they  relate  to  the  several  Words 
antecedent  and  consequent,  are  collated  with  them,  in 
order  that  fresh  Inferences  may  be  derived.  This 
Collation  cannot  very  easily  be  exhausted,  because 
words  may  be  collated  together  without  end. 

"  Be  not  thou  ashamed" — verse  8.  with  "  a  sound 
mind:" — verse  7. 

1.  Carnal  wisdom  is  easily  put  to  shame  by  adverse 
circumstances. 

2.  The  Spirit  of  a  sound  mind  so  composes  the 
soul,  that  afflictions  do  not  even  produce  shame. 

u  Be  not  thou  ashamed" — with  "  love:"  verse  7. 

cc  There  is  no  fear  in  love ;  but  perfect  love  casteth 
out  fear,  because  fear  hath  torment:  he  that  feareth 
is  not  made  perfect  in  love."  This  is  the  language 
of  John.,  1  Epist.  iv.  18e 


INFERENTIAL  RE  ADING.  107 

"  Be  not  thou  ashamed"  u  with  power,5' — verse  7. 

The  Christian's  power  is  internal,  and  confirms 
and  strengthens  the  mind  in  Christ,  in  order  that  it 
may  not  be  moved  away  from  its  steadfastness. 

The  Third  External  Source  will,  without  difficulty :> 
furnish  a  far  greater  abundance  of  Inferences.  Here, 
we  may  advert  to  Parallelisms  adequate  and  inade- 
quate, and  carefully  compare  the  words  of  the  text 
with  all  parallel  passages:  as  Rom.  i.  16.  2  Cor.  iv, 
6—11.  Phil.  i.  19,  20.  1  Thess.  iii.  2.  4.  Matt.  v. 
10.  11.  Matt.  x.  31.  33.  1  Pet.  iii.  13.  1  Pet.  iv. 
13.  Rom.  viii.  17.  Acts  xiv.  22.  Phil.  iii.  10.  Col. 
i.  24.  2  Thess.  i.  1.  1  Tim.  vi.  12.  Heb.  xL  12.  1 
Pet.  i.  and  ii.  21.  Rev.  vii.  14. 

In  the  same  manner  as  it  was  intended  that  Timo- 
thy should  be  confirmed  and  fortified  against  affliction 
by  the  words  of  Paul,  is  it  purposed  that  all  Chris- 
tians should  be  thus  fortified  and  confirmed  by  the 
foregoing  passages.  Hither  are  to  be  referred  all 
parts  of  the  New  and  Old  Testaments  which  speak 
of  bearing  the  cross  of  Christ  and  of  denying  self; 
but  especially,  those  which  relate  to  the  office  of 
a  minister  of  a  church,  and  to  the  faith  required  of 
them  in  times  of  persecution.  The  parallel  words 
are  not,  however,  to  be  considered  apart,  but  only  as 
they  are  compared  with  the  text;  neither  are  other 
Inferences  to  be  attended  to,  than  those  which  natu 


Ki8  STUDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

rally  flow  from  texts  when  collated.  In  Phil.  i.  19. 
and  Rom.  i  16.  Paul  affirms  that  he  is  not  ashamed 
of  the  testimony  of  Christ;  and  it  is  this  which  he  re- 
quires of  Timothy  in  the  text  under  our  notice.  Hencej 
Faithful  teachers  confidently  demand  that  from  others, 
which  they  experimentally  know  is  not  impossible. 
Again, — He  who  inculcates  patience,  manifests  it  by 
example,  before  he  enjoins  it  by  precept,  hi  Rom. 
viii.  17,  18.  the  proportion  between  temporal  cala- 
mity and  eternal  joy  is  said  to  be  nothing.  Hence, — 
The  hope  of  everlasting  glory  represses  all  shame  of 
temporal  afflictions. 

It  is  requisite  in  all  cases,  but  particujarly  so  in 
the  present,  correctly  to  distinguish  whether  the  In- 
ferences be  homogeneous,  that  is,  flow  from  an  entire 
text;  or  heterogeneous,  that  is,  result  from  only  a  part 
of  a  text.  As  Inferences  are  nothing  more  than  Con- 
clusions which  may  be  proved  from  a  text  viewed  in 
itself,  or  in  collation  with  some  other  passage;  the 
strength  of  the  proof  must  be  either  in  an  entire  text 
or  else  in  some  part  of  a  text;  which,  if  carefully  ob- 
served, renders  Inferences  far  more  evident. 

The  latter  Sources  are  termed  External,  from  a 
comparison  with  the  Inherent  Sources,  which  suggest 
Inferences  only  from  the  text  itself.  No  Sources  can 
be  denominated  External,  unless  in  this  view;  because 
all  Inferences  must,  of  necessity,  evolve  from  the 


INFERENTIAL  READING,  100 

text  The  only  difference  is,  that  some  result  from 
it  when  considered  by  itself;  while  others  flow  from  a 
collation  with  other  passages. 

If,  in  the  respective  Sources,  the  student  take  into 
consideration,  Circumstances,  as,  who?  ichat?  &c. 
they  will  easily  furnish  him  with  Inferences.  Tin's 
remark  we  noticed  in  treating  of  the  Scope. 

The  reader  may  proceed  to  consider  the  different 
kinds  of  Inferences  and  their  various  application,  as 
expressed  above.  In  this  view,  we  shall  be  presented 
with  such  a  profusion  of  them,  as  it  would  weary  hu- 
man nature  to  exhaust.  Some,  for  example,  apply  to 
piety;  others,  to  wisdom;  others,  to  holy  eloquence. 
Piety  consists  in  faith  that  works  by  love.     Hence — - 

1 .  It  is  the  character  of  faith,  when  true  and  saving, 
and  wrought  by  the  Spirit,  not  to  be  ashamed  of  ca* 
lamities,  but  to  endure  them  with  an  intrepid  mind. 

2.  Christian  love  does  not  relinquish  public  com- 
munion, on  account  of  persecution  or  the  hazard  of 
life ;  the  glory  of  God  requiring  this  of  us. 

3.  It  is  the  highest  Christian  wisdom,  to  undergo 
afflictions  on  account  of  the  Gospel,  with  the  simpli- 
city of  the  lamb  and  dove. 

4.  It  is  the  duty  of  a  wise  teacher,  not  only  to  in- 
struct the  church  committed  to  him,  but,  especially  to 
prepare  the  minds  of  proper  persons  by  wholesome  ad- 


110  STUDY  OF  THIi  SCRIPTURES. 

monitions,  in  order  that  some  such  may  be  always 
ready  to  continue  the  preaching  of  the  Gospel.  See 
2  Tim.  ii.  2. 

Paul,  as  is  usual  with  him,  strongly  inculcates  the 
same  thing,  by  the  force  of  an  Opposite  Proposition. 
Hence — A  Tautology  in  holy  eloquence,  is  not  to  be 
rashly  censured,  nor  is  the  repetition  of  the  same 
thing,  in  different  words,  to  be  considered  as  a  fault. 
The  necessity  of  the  thing  itself,  and  the  weakness  of 
human  nature,  very  often  render  frequent  repetition 
needful. 


PRACTICAL  READING.  Ill 

CHAPTER  IV. 

OE  rRACTICAI,  READING. 


Practical  Reading  is  essentially  necessary  and 
eminently  useful;  and  its  object  is  the  application  of 
the  Scriptures  to  faith  and  practice.  This  application 
respects  either  others,  or  ourselves;  and,  of  course, 
it  would  be .  absurd  to  apply  Divine  Truth  to  our 
neighbour,  before  we  have  done  so  to  our  own  hearts. 
To  deduce  practical  doctrines  and  inferences  from 
Scripture,  and  to  apply  them  in  an  historical  way,  is 
not  properly  Practical  Reading,  which  chiefly  respects 
the  affections  of  the  person  who  institutes  it. 

Practical  Reading  is  of  such  a  nature,  that  it  may 
be  prosecuted  by  an  illiterate  person;  for  the  applica- 
tion of  Scripture  which  it  enjoins,  is  connected  with 
salvation;  and  therefore,  if  it  were  not  within  the  abi- 
lity of  the  unlearned,  it  would  be  vain  to  concede  to 
them,  the  reading  of  the  Scriptures,  We  do  not, 
however,  deny,  but  that,  from  an  acquaintance  with 
the  Greek  and  Hebrew  languages,  several  things  of 
un  edifying  nature  may  arise.,  which  would  not  be  so 


112  STUD?  OF  THE  SCBIPTUBE9. 

obvious  in  a  translation.  It  is,  however,  sufficient, 
that  all  things  necessary  to  faith  and  practice  may  be 
acquired  from  versions. 

The  simplest  Application  of  Divine  Truth  is  cer- 
tainly the  most  profitable,  if  it  be  made  with  sincerity 
of  mind:  yet,  if  some  advice  on  this  subject  be  re- 
quired, the  following  observations  may  not  be  found 
useless. 

Practical  Application  should  be  rightly  distinguish- 
ed, as  it  respects  its  Commencement  and  its  Continu- 
ation. It  is  begun  with  the  reading  of  the  Scriptures, 
and  it  is  1o  be  continued  during  the  whole  life. 

The  Commencement  of  Practical  Application  is 
instituted  with  most  ease,  by  including  the  text  we 
are  employed  on  and  its  component  words,  in  short 
prayers  or  ejaculations,  after  its  meaning  has  been 
properly  ascertained.  This  method  may  appear  sim- 
ple and  puerile;  but  many  have  approved  its  excel- 
lency by  experience,  and  the  rich  fruits  which  it  has 
produced. 

When  a  physician  attends  a  patient,  he,  in  the  first 
place,  ascertains  his  malady  and  its  attendant  symp- 
toms; then,  he  inquires  into  the  causes  of  it;  and, 
lastly,  he  fixes  on  the  remedies.  Just  in  the  same 
way  are  we  to  act,  in  applying  any  portion  of  Holy 
Writ. — After  the  most  natural  and  obvious  meaning 
of  the  text  has  been  ascertained^  we  are,  accordingly^ 


PRACTICAL  HEADING.  113 

to  consider  first  the  habit  of  our  minds,  and  accurately 
to  compare  it  with  the  portion  under  our  notice.  If 
this  be  done  with  singleness  of  intention,  we  shall* 
plainly  perceive,  as  in  a  glass,  the  particular  faults 
under  which  we  labour.  We  are  then  to  examine  into 
the  causes  of  these  faults,  that  we  may  not  attempt 
to  heal  an  internal  wound  with  an  external  remedy; 
or  commit  any  similar  error.  After  this,  we  must 
look  for  remedies  proper  to  correct  our  faults,  (a) 

It  is  not  merely  external  precepts  that  are  to  be 
observed,  for  we  should  solicitously  search  out  their 
foundation;  and,  in  this,  Practical  Reading  should 
principally  terminate;  otherwise,  we  may  accumulate 
precepts  to  no  useful  purpose.  Here,  the  following 
directions  require  our  attention. 

1 .  We  should  seek  for  the  Foundation  of  precepts 
in  the  Scriptures  themselves. 

2.  We  should  then  try  whether  we  can  discover  it 
in  our  own  breasts.  For  instance,  when  we  are  re- 
quired to  pray  for  our  enemies,  it  is  evident  that  the 
Foundation  of  the  precept  is  sincere  and  unaffected 
love  for  them.  We  should,  therefore,  consider,  whe- 
ther we  really  possess  this  love;  because,  to  pray  for 
them,  when  we  have  it  not,  must  be  hypocrisy. 

3.  The  Foundation  must  be  laid  in  our  hearts,  be- 
fore we  think  of  building  any  precepts  upon  it. 

10 


Vbt  OT  i  HB  SCRIPTURES. 

In  all  Practical  Application,  wc  mu; >t  have  our  eyes 
fixed  on  Christ;  for,  ficjrt,  he  is  to  be  applied  to  our 
•  hearts,  by  faith,  for  salvation;  and,  secondly,  he  is  to 
be  imitated  in  our  lives;  for  "He  is  the  way,  the 
truth,  and  the  life;  and  no  one  cometh  to  the  Father, 
but  by  him."  The  examples  of  men  are  to  be  copied 
only  so  far  as  they  conform  to  this  rule.  "Be  ye 
"followers  of  me,"  saith  Paul,  "even  as  I  also  ani 
"of  Christ."  1  Cor.  xi.  1. — Here,  likewise,  we 
must  guard  against  two  common  errors;  lest,  in  the 
first  place,  our  carnal  nature  and  depraved  reason, 
which  are  propense  to  evil,  should  mistake  vice  for 
virtue;  and,  in  the  second,  lest  we  should  pay  that 
regard  to  external  excellencies,  and  hold  them  up  to 
that  imitation,  which  are  due  rather  tc  the  internal 
habit  of  our  minds.  Rom.  xv.  3. 

We  ought  frequently  to  read  some  book  of  Scrip- 
ture which  inculcates  the  foundations  of  faith  and 
practice  with  peculiar  force  and  perspicuity,  and  stu- 
diously endeavour  to  render  ourselves  as  much  as  pos- 
sible conformed  to  it.  Such  are  the  Gospel  and 
Epistles  of  John. — This  is  not,  however,  enjoined,  to 
the  exclusion  of  other,  and  perhaps  better  plans. 

In  the  Commencement  of  Practical  Reading,  the 
student  should  attend  to  the  following  remarks: 
1.  We  are  not  to  apply  all  things  at  once,  but  sue- 


PRACTICAL  RKAi>  115 

oessively;  lest  our  minds  be  overwhelmed  with  the 
abundance  of  matter. 

2.  Application  should  commence  with  the»  more 
easy  books  and  passages,  in  which  the  understanding 
is  not  liable  to  be  fatigued  by  any  difficulties  in  the 
sense,  nor  to  be  agitated  by  consequent  doubts.  When 
a  proficiency  has  been  made,  recourse  may  be  had  to 
those  which  are  more  abstruse. 

3.  Application  is  to  be  instituted,  not  that  we  may 
have  matter  for  discourse,  but  for  practice. 

The  Continuation  of  Practical  Application  should 
occupy  the  whole  of  our  lives.  It  is  assisted  partly 
by  our  own  industry,  which  would,  however,  be  ineffi- 
cient without  grace;  and,  partly,  by  the  help  of  Di- 
vine grace,  which  is  continually  poured  out  in  larger 
measures  on  their  hearts,  who  receive  the  seed  of  the 
word,  as  into  good  ground.  We  are  bound,  on  our 
parts,  to  use  diligent  prayer,  and  constant  meditation  5 
— to  institute  perpetual  collations  of  Scripture; — to 
be  instant  in  our  attention  to  what  passes  in  others 
and  ourselves; — and  to  exercise  a  vigilant  observation 
of  our  own  state  of  mind.  Equally  essential  with 
these  important  particulars,  are — conversation  with 
those  who  have  made  greater  advances  in  spiritual 
knowledge;  and — the  cultivation  of  inward  peace;  of 
which,  the  more  we  possess,  the  more  we  shall  enter 
into  the  true  meaning  of  the  Scripture. 


116  ST  UDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

Many  other  things  there  are,  which  experience 
■will  readily  suggest  to  the  minds  of  those  who  are 
intent  on  the  application  of  divine  truth.  God,  in  his 
infinite  mercy  to  his  children,  imparts  to  them  the  in- 
ternal operation  of  his  Spirit,  at  other  seasons  than 
when  engaged  in  reading  his  Word.  As  he  blesses 
the  seed  sown  in  the  earth,  and  causes  it  to  strike 
root,  to  flourish,  and  to  bear  abundant  fruit;  so  does 
he  incessantly  nourish  the  incorruptible  seed  of  his 
Word,  with  the  richest  out- pourings  of  his  grace. 
He  likewise  permits  the  mind  to  be  exercised  with 
trials,  internal  and  external :  and,  by  all  these  means, 
the  Practical  Application  of  Scripture,  is  much  as- 
sisted. 

The  Application  of  the  Sacred  Oracles  to  others, 
whether  in  public  or  private,  is  attended  with  less 
trouble  and  more  confidence,  after  sufficient  care  and 
devotion  have  been  used  in  the  duty  of  self-applica- 
tion:  because  no  other  way  of  salvation  is  to  be 
exhibited  to  them,  than  that  by  which  we  expect 
to  be  saved.  It  however  supposes  in  those  who  ex- 
ercise it,  not  a  vain  prurience,  but  a  holy  zeal  for  the 
conversion  of  souls;  the  spirit  of  experience  and  dis- 
cretion; a  knowledge  of  the  state  of  the  Church;  and 
that  all  the  admonitions  given,  spring  from  faith  and 
love.  The  Lord  help  us  so  to  interpret  Scripture, 
both  to  ourselves  and  otlr- 


ORDER  OF  STUDYING.  11? 

OF  THE 

ORDER  OF  STUDYING 

THE 

HOLY  SCRIPTURES. 


It  was  intimated,  in  the  course  of  the  work,  that  we 
should  notice  the  Order  in  which  the  Scriptures  are 
to  be  studied;  and,  therefore,  a  few  directions  are 
added,  on  this  subject,  by  way  of  conclusion. 

First,  then,  our  Object  should  be  agreeable  to  the 
divine  will,  and  always  deeply  imprinted  on  our  minds; 
namely,  to  promote  the  glory  of  the  eternal  God,  by 
the  edification  of  ourselves  and  others. 

The  Scriptures  may  be  studied  both  in  a  Transla- 
tion, and  in  an  authentic  edition  of  the  Original.  Our 
perusal  of  the  Translation  is  to  be  Historical, 
Doctrinal,  and  Practical. 

! .  The  Sum  and  Substance  of  the  book  under  con- 
10* 


118  STtTDY  OF  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

sideration,  and  its  Argument,  may  be  fully  weighed 
and  considered. 

2.  The  Seats  of  Subjects  may  be  distinguished  ac- 
cording to  the  recommendation  of  Franzius,  (Part  I. 
Chap.  2. ;)  and  those  which  are  proper,  together  with 
such  Seats  as  are  here  and  there  interspersed,  may 
be  expressly  noted. 

3.  The  Doctrines  which  are  clearly  and  perspicu- 
ously revealed,  and  concerning  which  there  is  no 
doubt  on  the  reader's  mind,  may  be  impressed  on  the 
memory. 

4.  Those  which  are  obvious,  may  be  applied  to 
the  purpose  of  self-edification,  according  to  the  me- 
thod prescribed  in  the  last  chapter. — Thus  the  pious 
student  will  be  able  to  study  the  Scriptures  with  both 
pleasure  and  profit,  at  the  same  time  that  he  devotes 
the  chief  part  of  his  labour  to  the  acquisition  of  the 
Greek  and  Hebrew,  and  opens  the  Way  to  more  use- 
ful reading. 

The  study  of  the  Greek  language  may  be  followed 
by  that  of  the  Hebrew;  and,  finally,  by  that  of  Idiom, 
and  these  may  be  prosecuted  in  connexion  with  the 
proposed  reading  of  the  vernacular  version.  Indeed, 
the  four  branches  of  Scripture  Reading  to  be  attend- 
ed to  in  the  perusal  of  the  latter,  may  claim  some 
share  of  our  regard,  when  instituting  Grammatical 


ORDER  OF  STUDYING.  119 

Reading,  This,  however,  must  be  done  indirectly; 
because  the  study  of  Languages  requires  our  whole 
attention. 

When  the  Grammatical  Reading  is  completed,  the 
mind  will  be  prepared  to  engage  in  a  more  exact  and 
particular  examination  of  the  Books  of  Scripture.  It 
will  then  be  proper  to  obtain  a  more  perfect  acquain- 
tance with  the  external  points  noticed,  Part  I.  Chap. 
2.  In  doing  this,  it  may  however  be  well  to  consult 
a  friend,  and  not  waste  our  time  over  a  multitude  of 
books,  with  whose  claims  to  our  regard,  we  are  not 
supposed  to  be  acquainted.  We  may  next  select  some 
easy  book  of  the  New  Testament,  such  as  the  Epis- 
tles to  Timothy,  Titus,  and  the  Philippians,  and 
carefully  examine  them  with  regard  to  the  subsequent 
particulars. 

1.  The  Sense  of  the  Letter,  and  the  Grammatical 
Sense.     Part  1.  Chap.  1. 

2.  Logical  Analysis.     Chap.  3, 

3.  The  Sense  purposed  by  the  Holy  Ghost.  Part 
II.  Chap.  1. 

4.  Doctrines,whether  expressed  or  implied.  Chap.  2. 

5.  Inferences.   Chap.  3. 

6.  Practical  Application.  Chap.  4. 

We  must  gradually  proceed  from  the  easier  books 


1&  STUDY  OP  THE  SCRIPTURES. 

to  those  which  are  more  difficult,  and  especially  those 
of  a  parallel  Argument;  from  the  New  Testament  to 
the  Old;  and  here  also,  from  the  simpler  books,  to 
those  which  are  more  abstruse. 

With  respect  to  External  Helps,  the  Order  in 
which  they  should  be  tised,  cannot  easily  be  deter- 
mined. In  our  opinion,  a  Tutor  is  requisite  at  this 
crisis;  for,  without  such  aid,  we  must  be  liable  to  er- 
ror; whereas,  he  will  conduct  us  by  the  readiest  path. 
Should  the  student  enjoy  this  advantage,  he  need  not 
be  totally  confined  to  the  plan  which  has  been  propo- 
sed, and  which  is  prescribed  with  a  view  rather  to 
private  studij. 

But,  after  all,  it  is  he  who  simply  aims  at  the  glory 
of  God,  and  thus  enjoys  Him  as  a  guide  and  a  support, 

at  will  put  the  happiest  period  to  his  labours, 
whether  he  be  called  to  public  exposition  of  Scripture, 
or  to  sit  under  the  ministration  of  another. 


APPENDIX. 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS,  123 


AYPEXlilX, 


A 

TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS, 

As  connected  with  the  Study  of  the  Holy  Scriptures, 


CHAPTER  I. 


THE  NECESSITY  OF  A  KNOWLEDGE  OF  THE  AFFEC- 
TIONS DEMONSTRATED. 


That  an  acquaintance  with  the  doctrine  of  the  Af- 
fections, is  an  essential  requisite  in  the  exposition  o 
the  Scriptures,  may  be  proved  from  Reason,  and  from 
the  Authority  of  Divines. 

It  may  be  proved  from  Reason:  for  (1.)  the  Af- 
fections of  Love,  Hatred,  Desire,  Hope,  Fear,  Joy. 
Sorrow,  &c.  are  frequently  to  be  met  with  in  HoK 
Writ.     It  is  evident,  therefore,  that  were  we  igno 
rant  of  these  Affections,  we  should  be  inadequate  to 


t&  APPENDIX, 

the  exposition  of  no  inconsiderable  part  of  the  Sacred 
Writings. 

2.  When  no  Affections  are  expressed,  we  must  ne- 
cessarily consider  them  implied;  and  that  every  sen- 
tence is  of  their  dictation.  In  2  Cor.  ii.  4.  Paul  says 
himself,  that  he  wrote  the  former  epistle  to  the  Co- 
rinthians, "  out  of  much  affliction  and  anguish  of  heart, 
"with  many  tears."  In  Phil.  iii.  18,  he  speaks  of 
the  false  teachers  with  "  weeping'"  and  in  1  Thess. 
ii.  7,  &c.  he  describes  his  ardent  love  for  the  Thes- 
salonians,  in  language  replete  with  energy  and  pathos. 
Does  not  reason  then  warrant  us,  in  concluding  that 
the  Affections  here  expressed,  are,  in  similar  passa- 
ges, implied!  When  Paul,  addressing  the  converts 
(1  Cor.  iv.  15.)  tells  them,  "Though  ye  have  ten 
thousand  instructors  in  Christ,  yet  not  many  fathers; 
for  in  Christ  Jesus,  I  have  begotten  you  through  the 
Gospel ;"  is  he  not  influenced  by  the  Affection  men- 
tioned in  1  Thess.  ii.  7,  &c?  When  he  asserts,  2 
Cor.  ii.  17,  that  "  many  corrupt  the  Word  of  God," 
(collate  iii.  2,  &c.)  who  but  infers  that  he  is  actuated 
by  the  Affection  noticed  Phil.  iii.  18?  an  Affection  in 
which  Indignation,  Sorrow,  Pity,  &c.  are  blended  to* 
gether.  Hence,  it  is  evident,  that  to  neglect  the  Af- 
fections because  they  are  not  directly  expressed,  would 
be  as  palpable  an  error,  as  to  pass  them  over  without 
concern,  where  they  are  plainly  and  fully  revealed, 
The  indications  of  an  Affection  are  aot  indeed  always 


TREATISE  OX  THE  AFFECTIONS,  125 

similar  nor  uniformly  perspicuous;  but  the  judicious 
and  spiritual  reader,  will  ever  find  them  to  be  fully 
adequate  and  sufficient. 

3.  When  we  read  the  Scriptures  we  are  bound  to 
see  that  our  natural  Affections  be  amended  and  cor- 
rected; and  that  our  hearts  under  the  influence  of  the 
Holy  Spirit,  overflow  with  gracious  Affections.  With- 
out, however,  a  knowledge  of  these  emotions,  who 
can  inspect  the  abyss  of  the  human  heart,  and  the 
depth  of  those  feelings  by  which  it  is  agitated  ?  And, 
without  forming  correct  ideas  of  the  Affections  which 
it  is  proposed  to  imitate,  how  shall  man,  who  is  car- 
nal,  "  put  them  on  ?" 

4.  The  nature  of  discourse  confirms  the  position. 
Christ  says  (Matt.  xii.  34,  35)— "  How  can  ye,  be- 
ing evil,  speak  good  things?  for  out  of  the  abundance 
of  the  heart,  the  mouth  speaketh.  A  good  man,  out 
of  the  good  treasure  of  the  heart,  bringeth  forth  good 
things;  and  an  evil  man,  out  of  the  evil  treasure 
bringeth  forth  evil  things."  These  words  decidedly 
evidence,  that,  unless  some  Affection  influenced  the 
heart,  language  would  not  be  uttered;  so  that  a  man's 
words  are,  in  fact,  the  index  of  his  feelings  or  Affec- 
tions. What  is  "  the  abundance  of  the  heart,"  but 
those  internal  emotions  which  inform  and  actuate  the 
human  soul;  and  which  constitute  in  a  hoiy  man,  holy 
Affections;  and  in  an  unholy  man,  unholy  Affections? 
So  closely,  indeed,  are  language  and  Affections  con- 

11 


12$  APPENDIX 

nee  ted  together,  so  indissoluble  is  the  union  that  sub- 
sists between  them,  that  it  would  be,  in  effect,  just  aa 
unreasonable  to  divide  soul  from  body,  as  to  separate 
these.  Since  then  the  Affections  are  so  intimately 
connected  with  all  language,  none  will  suppose  that 
they  are  banished  from  the  Writings  of  the  Inspired 
Penmen:  and,  because  they  are  closely  united  with 
the  language  of  Inspiration,  it  follows  that  the  Sacred 
Records  cannot  be  adequately  expounded,  by  those 
who  are  satisfied  with  the  mere  shell,  and  contemn 
the  precious  kernel  of  Scripture;  who  watch  the  lips, 
but  never  enter  into  the  feelings  of  the  Inspired  Pen- 
men. 

5.  Since  different  ideas  and  views  are  communica- 
ted by  different  Affections,  so  that  the  same  words, 
pronounced  under  the  influence  of  various  emotions, 
v/ill  convey  various  meanings;  it  becomes  requisite  to 
investigate  and  develope  the  Affections  of  the  Sacred 
Penmen;  lest  we  impose  on  their  language,  a  sense 
they  were  not  intended  to  deliver. — Many  other  ar- 
guments which  might  be  adduced,  we  intentionally 
omit;  because  a  treatise  on  this  subject  will  best  de- 
monstrate its  high  importance. 

Having  shown  the  necessity  of  an  acquaintance  with 
the  Doctrine  of  the  Affections,  on  the  ground  of  Rea- 
son, let  us  proceed,  for  a  moment,  to  enforce  its  claims 
on  the  Authority  of  Divines,  . 

Wolffgang  Franzius,  in  his  invaluable  book,  "  cle 


iUL-  VHE  AFFECTIONS.  127 

Interpretation  Scriplurae  Sacra?/'  discusses  the  ques- 
tion so  fully,  and  illustrates  his  positions  with  exam- 
ples so  pertinent,  as  to  render  his  work  deserving  the 
serious  attention  of  the  inquiring  reader,  (a) 

Luther  also  was  indebted  to  his  knowledge  of  the 
Affections,  and  to  his  lively  mode  of  representing 
them,  for  that  eminent  gift  at  exposition,  with  which 
he  was  endowed.  Of  this,  his  Comment  on  Genesis, 
and  his  Discourses  on  the  Psalms,  are  conclusive  evi- 
dences. 

We  next  proceed  to  cite  some  observations,  from 
the  letter  addressed  by  Spener  to  the  Philo-Biblical 
College  at  Leipsic.  This  celebrated  man  observes — 
*'No  practice  will  prove  more  pleasant  or  beneficial,  and 
none  more  suitable  to  the  College,  than  after  fervent, 
secret  prayer,  to  discriminate  and  enter  into  the  Af- 
fections of  the  Inspired  Writers  with  sacred  attention 
and  perseverance,  and  strive  to  unfold  their  nature  and 
character.  This  being  done,  and  the  thoughts  being 
collected  and  brought  to  bear  on  the  subject  in  hand, 
the  students  will  be  able  to  mark,  with  the  highest  de- 
light and  profit,  the  indications  of  faith  and  of  the 
mind  of  Jesus,  together  with  the  more  minute  cir- 
cumstances; and  easily  awaken  in  their  own  bosoms, 
Affections  of  a  kindred  nature.  That  eminent  divine, 
Luther,  when  speaking  of  this  practice,  says — c  Who- 
ever adopts  it,  will,  I  am  satisfied,  learn  more  him- 
self, than  he  can  srathor  from  all  commentaries  united. 


128  APPENDIX. 

By  means  of  incessant  and  attentive  reading,  we 
should,  as  it  were,  raise  the  Writer  from  the  dead, 
and  consider  him  as  alive ;  so  as  to  form  perfect  con- 
ceptions mentally,  of  what  we  cannot  actually  be- 
hold. When  engaged  in  the  study  of  the  Scriptures, 
the  Idea  formed  in  the  Writer's  mind  should  be  care- 
fully ascertained;  the  Affections  by  which  he  was  in- 
fluenced; his  state  of  life;  and  his  office,  at  the  time 
he  penned  the  book.  Much  do  I  wish  that  the  labour 
which  Casaubon  has  bestowed  on  Horace,  Juvenal, 
and  Persius,  in  his  Prolegomena,  were  applied  to  the 
elucidation  of  the  Divine  Oracles,  so  as  to  give  a 
just  description  of  the  Genius,  Mind,  Condition,  Man- 
ners, and  Affections,  peculiar  to  each  of  the  Sacred 
Writers.  These  are  desirable  subjects,  that  yet  re- 
main untouched.'  Luther  again  remarks,  l  that  an 
expositor  should,  as  it  were,  invest  himself  with  the 
Author's  mind,  in  order  that  he  may  interpret  him  as 
another  self.'  Bernard,  likewise,  excelled  in  this  hea- 
venly art,  of  correcting  his  own  Affections  by  those  of 
the  Sacred  Penmen;  and  it  was  thence  he  derived  his 
spiritual  erudition."  (6)  Thus  far  Spener's  letter; 
and  to  these  names  may  be  added  that  of  Flaccus  II- 
lyricus,  who  also  recommends  the  study  of  the  Affec- 
tions of  the  Inspired  Penmen. 

Let  us  now  consider  a  few  objections  which  may 
be  made  to  this  view  of  the  subject.  There  are  per- 
sons perhaps  who   think  that  the  Holy  Spirit   is 


TREATIS&B  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS.  129 

wronged,  when  we  attribute  to  the  Sacred  Writers, 
Affections  which  are,  in  reality,  the  fruit  of  his  influ- 
ence: and  that  the  Scriptures  are  not  to  be  referred 
to  those  holy  men,  but  rather  to  the  Holy  Ghost  who 
speaks  by  them.  To  this  we  answer,  that  the  fact 
of  their  being  divinely  inspired,  far  from  militating 
against  our  position,  tends  itself  to  convince  us  that 
the  Holy  Spirit  kindled  sacred  Affections  in  the  Wri- 
ters' Souls;  for  it  is  absurd  to  suppose,  that,  in  pen- 
ning the  Scriptures,  they  viewed  themselves  in  the 
light  of  mere  machines;  or  that  they  wrote  without 
any  feeling  or  perception,  what  we  read  with  so  great 
a  degree  of  both.  Doubtless,  their  minds  were  illu- 
minated by  the  Spirit,  and  their  wills  inflamed  with 
pious,  holy,  and  ardent  Affections,  so  that  they  wrote 
as  they  felt,  and  as  they  were  u  moved  by  the  Holy 
Ghost."  2  Pet.  i.  21,  Indeed,  it  appears  that  the 
Spirit  condescended  to  accommodate  himself  to  their 
peculiar  genius  and  modes  of  writing,  which  evi- 
dently vary  in  the  different  books  of  Scripture.  Hence 
we  conclude,  that  the  minds  of  the  Sacred  Penmen 
were  not  unmoved;  but,  on  the  contrary,  active,  en- 
lightened, and  replete  with  holy  Affections. 

Besides,  the  Inspired  Writers  sometimes  mention 
the  Affections  by  which  they  are  actuated,  as  hath 
been  already  shown;  and  this  must  form  a  complete 
answer  to  the  Objection  proposed:  for  who  will  have 
-the  temerity  to  affirm,  when  Paul  expressly  dec  i 
11* 


iSt)  APPENDIX. 

his  Love,  Joy,  Desire,  Hope,  that  he  really  is  not  iip 
fluenced  by  these  sacred  passions  ? 

Again,  it  may  possibly  be  objected,  that,  on  the 
principles  laid  down,  the  Language  of  Divine  Truth 
would  become  ambiguous;  for  that  any  one  might  give 
it  what  sense  he  pleased,  by  referring  it  to  various 
Affections.  In  reply  to  this  objection  we  observe, 
that  we  agree  in  considering  it  a  matter  of  high  im- 
portance, to  develope  the  genuine  and  spiritual  mean- 
ing of  the  written  Word;  and,  then,  prove  it  to  be  so, 
where  there  is  no  gesture  or  modulation  of  voice,  to 
guide  us  in  judging  of  the  Affections.  To  infer,  how- 
ever, that  we  must  not  examine  into  the  Affections  of 
the  Inspired  Penmen,  lest  this  ambiguity  should  arise, 
were  to  conceal  our  ignorance,  and  dissemble  the 
difficulty  rather  than  explain  it.  Daily  experience 
testifies,  that  even  familiar  conversation  is  capable 
of  various  interpretations,  according  to  the  Affections 
that  operate:  will  then  our  ignorance  remove  these 
Affections,  which  nature  implanted,  and  which  grace 
does  not  restrain  ?  This  objection  is,  in  truth,  a  co- 
gent argument  in  favour  of  the  study  of  the  Affections; 
for  when  we  have  acquired  ability  to  develope  them 
(which  certainly  is  attainable,)  the  Scriptures,  will, 
of  course,  cease  to  be  ambiguous. 

It  forms  no  solid  objection  to  our  view  of  the  sub- 
ject, that  many  Commentators  neglect  this  branch  of 
exposition,  and  pass  it  over  in  silence.     This  c-ar\*\" 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS.  iSi 

deration  is  abundantly  overruled,  by  opposing  to  it  the 
high  authorities  that  have  advocated  the  cause  of  the 
Affections.  It  might  be  added,  that  those  persons 
are  usually  but  indifferent  examiners  of  the  Scriptures, 
who,  in  searching  into  their  meaning,  depend,  partially 
or  entirely,  on  authority.  It  evidences,  as  Bernard 
has  observed,  that  they  do  not  read  the  Word  in  the 
Spirit,  under  whose  influence  it  was  written. 

Besides,  a  consequence  deduced  from  the  igno- 
rance or  negligence  of  Commentators,  can  avail  no- 
thing against  the  doctrine.  It  is,  indeed,  to  be  la- 
mented, that  very  few  are  solicitous  to  ascertain  the 
spiritual  meaning  of  the  Sacred  Writings;  but  are 
anxious  rather  to  be  diffuse  on  critical,  controverted, 
and  difficult  points,  where  there  is  a  wider  field  for 
the  range  of  natural  intellect.  This  inattention  to  the 
Affections  is  a  main  reason,  why  some  commentaries 
are  so  meagre  and  unsatisfactory  to  spiritual  readers, 
who  with  a  view  to  personal  edification,  search  after 
the  mind  of  the  Spirit,  and  the  revelations  of  the  di- 
vine image.  A  comment,  written  without  adverting  to 
the  Affections,  is  so  only  in  name  and  form, 


132  APPENDIX 


CHAPTER  II. 

Remarks  on  the  affections  as  they 
respect  an  unrenewed  person. 


An  unrenewed  man  cannot  attain  to  a  just  knowledge 
of  the  Affections,  as  a  help  to  exposition.  This  is 
evident  from  the  following  considerations. 

An  unrenewed  person  has  no  perception  of  any  but 
natural  Affections.  He  speaks  of  spiritual  Affections, 
as  a  blind  man  does  of  colours:  and  even  as  it  respects 
those  which  are  natural,  his  views  are  not  just,  so 
long  as  he  is  immured  in  the  darkness  and  depravity 
of  his  corrupt  nature.  It  is  spiritual  Affections,  how- 
ever, that  are  chiefly  to  be  known;  for  the  mind  of 
Christ  best  explains  the  mind  of  Christ.  This  is  clear 
from  1  Cor.  ii. 

Again,  the  knowledge  of  the  Affections  of  which 
we  speak,  is  practical;  whereas,  an  unrenewed  man 
peruses  the  Scriptures  theoretically;  and  believes  it 
sufficient,  if  he  understand  them  through  the  medium 
of  natural  reason.  It  likewise  requires  an  inward 
perception,  (cttvBvo-ig^)  of  which  the  unrenewed  per- 


lilEAiiSH.  O^  THE  AFFECTIONS.  1S3 

fcon  is  destitute,  and  after  which,  while  in  his  unrege- 
nerate  state,  he  never  seriously  aspires. 

It  seems  indeed  an  objection  to  this  statement,  that 
we  daily  see  ungodly  men  not  only  handle  the  Scrip- 
ture, but  also  speak  largely  on  its  meaning,  in  books 
and  commentaries;  and  indeed  utter  truths  that  can- 
not be  controverted  by  pious  men.  This  difficulty  is, 
however,  fully  explained,  when  we  reflect  that  what 
is  within  the  compass  of  a  carnal  man  in  profane 
writings,  is  equally  so  as  it  respects  the  Scriptures. 
He  can,  for  instance,  apprehend  the  terms  as  they 
are  commonly  received,  form  the  affirmation  and  ne- 
gation, understand  them  when  formed,  and  perceive 
the  necessity  of  a  consequence,  as  well  in  Holy  Writ 
as  in  profane  authors.  When  an  unrenewed  person 
reads  the  precept — "  Thou  shalt  not  kill,"  he  per- 
fectly conceives  what  is  meant  by  killing;  he  likewise 
understands  what  is  prohibited;  and,  because  the  pre- 
cept is  universal,  he  rightly  infers  that  he  is  forbidden 
to  murder.  But  as  it  respects  the  spiritual  mean- 
ing, which  the  letter  does  not  immediately  convey, 
and  the  mind  of  the  Spirit  (to  (ppovyfJL*  tx  7rvevf4,&To$y) 
how  is  it  possible  for  a  carnal,  unrenewed  man,  to 
have  any  perception  of  that  from  which  he  is  so  en- 
tirely alienated?  In  1  Cor.  ii.  11,  12,  Paul  affirms, 
that  "  the  things  of  God  knoweth  no  man,  but  the 
Spirit  of  God;  and  they  who  have  received,  not  the 
Spirit  of  the  World,  but  the  Spirit  wfcich  is  of  Go<?  " 


APPENDIX 

As  an  example  of  this,  we  cite  James  iii.  where 
the  Apostle,  by  implication,  accuses  the  persons  ad- 
dressed, of  a  breach  of  the  fifth  commandment,  and 
(ver.  17,  18)  describes  the  mind  of  the  Spirit  in  full, 
perspicuous,  and  energetic  language;  displaying  that 
mind,  as  it  were,  before  their  eyes,  in  impressive 
points  of  view.  It  is  indubitably  certain,  that  a  car- 
nal man  can  apprehend  the  terms  of  the  proposition 
here  advanced,  and  apply  the  precept,  by  legitimate 
consequence,  to  himself;  but  he  will  not,  he  cannot, 
have  any  perception,  or  form  any  idea,  of  the  habit 
of  a  soul  that  is  sanctified,  and  endued  with  heavenly 
knowledge  and  divine  perception.  On  this  subject 
we  may  confidently  appeal  to  the  believer's  present 
and  past  experience.  Since  then  an.  unrenewed  per- 
son has  no  knowledge  of  this  habit  of  the  mind,  how 
is  it  possible  for  him  to  have  any  perception  of  the 
emotions  of  a  holy  soul  ? 

Observation  and  experience  have  likewise  evidenced 
most  decisively,  that,  in  consequence  of  the  incapacity 
already  noticed,  the  mind  of  a  carnal,  unregenerate 
person,  is  far  from  adequately  penetrating  even  into 
the  sense  of  the  letter;  because,  from  the  very  nature 
of  things,  there  subsists  the  closest  connexion  between 
words  and  ideas. 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS.  jKtf 


CHAPTER  III. 

OF  THE  NATURE  OF  THE  AFFECTIONS. 


It  being  demonstrated,  that  only  a  renewed  person 
can  consistently  engage  in  examining  the  Affections, 
let  us  inquire  into  their  nature. 

The  consideration  of  the  Affections  is  fourfold.  If 
we  examine  them  generally,  a  definition  that  will  com- 
port with  all,  cannot  be  given;  nor  is  it  indeed  neces- 
sary. Let  us,  however,  notice  them  in  the  following 
points  of  view. 

1 .  As  they  belong  to  men,  in  common  with  brutes. 
Under  this  character,  we  must  class  the  motions  of 
sensitive  appetite,  arising  from  the  imagination  of  good 
or  evil,  whether  real,  or  only  apparently  so. 

2.  As  they  belong  to  the  carnal  man.  In  this  class 
wre  may  range  the  motions  (facultatis  appetentis)  of 
the  desiring  faculty,  sensitive  or  intellectual ;  arising 
from  the  apprehension  of  good  or  evil,  whether  this 
be  of  a  sensitive  or  intellectual  nature. 

3.  As  they  belong  to  the  spiritual  man.  In  this 
view,  an  Affection  is  the  emotion  of  a  soul  sanctified 
and  actuated  by  the  Spirit, 


136  AVPESDLV. 

4.  As  they  are  attributed  to  God  himself,  in  the 
Sacred  Writings.  This  the  Grammarians  call 
uv$g&j7roira,8£ia  (a  human  Affection,)  a  word  which 
immediately  suggests,  that  Affections  cannot  be  attri- 
buted to  the  Divine  Being,  but  that  the  Holy  Ghost 
accommodates  himself  to  human  infirmity,  and  conde- 
scends to  speak  of  God  in  a  way  adapted  to  our  capa- 
cities. Luther  explains  the  foundation  of  t&v$pa7ro7rctfcaz* 
in  this  way: — "  Affections  are  attributed  to  God,  so 
"  far  as  they  are  found  in  the  Sacred  Writers  who 
"  were  inspired  by  Him;  and  also  in  the  ministers  of 
"  the  Word.  Thus  we  find,  Gen.  vi.  6,  that  re- 
u  pentance  is  ascribed  to  God,  so  far  as  Noah,  a  holy 
M  m^n,  under  the  sacred  influences  of  the  Spirit,  felt 
u  grieved  on  account  of  the  gross  and  universal  de- 
a  pravity  of  mankind.  Affections  are  likewise  attri- 
u  buted  to  God,  so  far  as  the  wicked  feel  them  in 
il  their  bosoms.  Thus  Anger  is  ascribed  to  the  Di- 
"  vine  Being  because  the  sinner  perceives,  by  the  dis- 
u  quietude  of  his  conscience  that  God  is  angry  with 
«  him." 

It  will  evidently  be  sufficient  for  our  purpose,  if  we 
consider  the  Affections  in  the  second  and  third  modes: 
that  is,  as  they  attach  to  the  carnal,  and  to  the  spi- 
ritual man.  This  will  suggest  all  that  is  necessary 
to  be  known  respecting  the  other  modes  noticed. 


£ 


i 


4 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS. 


CHAPTER  IV, 

OF  CARNAL  AND  SPIRITUAL  AFFECTIONS,  AND  THEIR 
PECULIAR  CHARACTERISTICS, 


As  both  the  carnal  and  spiritual  Affections  will  come 
under  consideration,  it  should  be  remarked,  that  Af- 
fections may  be  similar  as  to  name,  and  yet,  on  ac- 
count of  their  Source,  Object,  End,  Subjects,  Ad- 
juncts, fyc.  be  essentially  different.  By  means  of  some 
definite  properties  or  characteristics,  they  can,  how- 
ever, be  readily  distinguished. 


Characteristics  of  Spiritual  Affections, 

1.  A  Spiritual  Affection  has  for  its  Source,  the 
Holy  Spirit,  and  is  the  fruit  of  His  influence. 

2.  A  spiritual  Affection  tends  to  a  holy  End. 

3.  A  spiritual  Affection  is  engaged  on  Objects  that 
are  divine,  eternal,  spiritual,  and  invisible. 

4.  A  spiritual  Affection,  when  engaged  on  sensible 
Objects,  is  not  employed  on  them  as  such;  but  only  so 
far  as  they  iiave  relation  to  those  which  are  unseen» 


138  APPENDIX, 

o.  A  spiritual  Affection,  is  grounded  on  Faith  and 
Love.  When  these  do  not  operate,  Affections  cease 
to  be  spiritual. 

6.  A  spiritual  Affection  influences  the  Subject  of 
it,  to  seek,  not  himself  nor  his  personal  convenience, 
as  such;  but  God  and  His  Glory. 

7.  A  spiritual,  overcomes  a  carnal  Affection,  though 
the  latter  be  otherwise  very  violent. 

8.  A  spiritual  Affection  is  always  connected  with 
Humility.  The  instant  the  mind  is  elated,  Affections 
become  carnal. 

9.  A  spiritual  Affection  excites  no  perturbation  in 
the  mind,  nor  does  it  leave  behind  it  any  bitterness. 
It  rather  assists  in  the  regulation  of  the  soul,  receiving 
every  dispensation  with  complacency,  and  acquiescing 
in  God  with  joy. 

10,  A  spiritual  Affection  tends  to  the  amelioration 
of  nature,  the  increase  of  grace,  and  the  edification  of 
mankind.;  having  no  object  but  the  glory  of  God. 


Characteristics  of  Carnal  Affections. 

1.  A  carnal  Affection,  as  it  is  opposed  to  those 
which  are  spiritual,  so,  it  has  Nature  for  its  Source, 
and  is  destitute  of  Grace. 

2.  A  Carnal  Affection  has  for  its  End,  the  tempo- 
ral preservation  and  amendment  of  nature,  or,  it  re- 


TREATISE  OS  iliE  AFFECTIONS. 

fers  all  things  to  pleasure;  and,  particularly,  seeks 
such  pleasure  not  in  mental  peace,  but  personal  con- 
venience; and  this,  often  under  a  pretext  of  duty. 

3.  A  carnal  Affection  is  engaged  on  Objects  that 
are  corporeal,  local,  temporal,  and  sensitive. 

4.  A  carnal  Affection,  if  engaged  upon  spiritual 
Objects,  does  not  dwell  on  them  as  such ;  neither,  with 
righteous  views,  nor  in  a  consistent  manner;  but  only 
so  far  as  they  have  Relation  to  private  gratification  or 
convenience. 

5.  A  carnal  Affection  receives  its  existence  and 
support  from  perverse  self-love. 

6.  A  carnal  Affection  gives  the  preference  to  tbings 
naturally  pleasing,  though  others  may  approximate 
more  nearly  to  real  excellence. 

7.  A  carnal  Affection  gradually  disturbs  the  mind 
when  it  is  at  all  indulged,  rendering  it  incapable  of 
investigating  truth,  or  of  performing  righteous  ac- 
tions; and  it  leaves  a  degree  of  bitterness  in  the 
mind,  proportioned  to  the  strength  of  the  Affection. 
Cicero  justly  used  to  term  them  "  perturbationes  ani- 
mi" — (the  perturbations  of  the  mind.) 

8.  A  carnal  Affection  has  always  a  degree  of  pride 
(tfv$«JW)  in  it,  though  it  is  often  very  subtile.  As 
long  as  this  has  place  in  the  mind,  carnal  Affections 
are  not  put  off. 

9.  A  carnal  Affection  often  induces  a  visible  change 
of  the  body. 


APPENDIX. 

The  Characteristics  we  have  enumerated,  are  by 
no  means  all;  but  they  are  the  more  general  ones; 
those  which  are  most  consonant  with  our  present  ob- 
ject; and  which  may  afford  matter  whence  to  derive 
others  of  a  more  special  kind.  If  the  reader  apply 
himself  to  do  this,  his  labour  will  not  be  unprofitable. 

The  object  of  the  Characteristics  which  have  been 
adduced,  is  to  develope  with  more  facility,  the  Affec- 
tions of  the  Inspired  Writers.  Other  authors,  who 
have  written  on  this  subject,  propose  to  themselves 
widely  different  views;  as  Scipio  Claramontius,  the 
Italian,  who  published  a  work  on  this  subject,  in  quarto, 
with  a  preface  by  Conringius  (Helmstadt.)  De  la 
Chambre  also  composed  four  books,  "  Des  Characte- 
rs des  Passions;"  and  Cardinal  Bona  has  another, 
more  worthy  the  notice  of  Christians,  entitled  "la- 
nuductio  ad  Ccelum,  &c."  (a) 

Although  the  carnal  Affections  are,  by  these  Cha- 
racteristics, separated  from  the  spiritual  Affections, 
Ave  are  not  thence  to  conclude,  that  they  are  so  separa- 
ted in  the  heart  of  a  renewed  person,  as  that  the  for- 
mer never  mingle  with  the  latter.  On  the  contrary, 
the  believer's  daily  strife  is  to  be  more  and  more  de- 
livered from  the  sinful  Affections  of  carnal  nature.  It 
is  according  to  the  reigning  Affection,  that  a  man  is 
denominated  carnal  or  spiritual.  To  suppose,  how- 
ever, that  renewed  and  unrenewed  men  have  the  same 
perception  of  the  Affections  of  the  Sacred  Writer 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS,  lit 

is  a  radical  error.  It  were  impious  to  ascribe  any 
mixture  of  good  and  bad  Affections  to  the  Holy  Spi- 
rit; though  we  cannot  deny  that  sacred  Affections 
show  themselves  in  a  sanctified  nature,  by  external 
&nd  natural  indications. 


12* 


APPENDIX 


CHAPTER  V. 

FURTHER  REMARKS  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS. 


I.  Affections  are  either  simple  or  compound.  The 
simple  Affections  are,  Love,  Hatred,  Desire,  Aver- 
sion, Joy,  Sorrow,  Hope,  Despair,  Fear,  Confi- 
dence, Anger.  The  Cartesian  philosophy,  not  un- 
reasonably, classes  with  them,  the  Affections  of  Ad- 
miration, Contempt  and  other  emotions  of  the  mind 
relating  chiefly  to  the  intellect.  The  compound  are 
those  in  which  many  Affections  concur,  as  Compas- 
sion, Indignation,  Envy,  Emulation,  &.c. — It  is  not 
enough  to  have  a  general  knowledge  of  the  Affections, 
since  every  word  may  flow  from  a  different  emotion. 

2.  In  the  consideration  of  the  sacred  Text,  a  dis- 
tinction is  to  be  made  between  the  Affections  of  the 
writer,  those  of  the  person  addressed,  the  Affections 
of  the  Subject  of  discourse,  and  those  which  are  at- 
tributed to  the  blessed  God.  Hence,  it  is  evidently 
necessary  not  only  to  ascertain  the  Affection,  bi 
determine  the  subject.  This  will  have  a  tendency  to 
cause  the  thing  itself  to  be  more  accurately,  distinctly. 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS.  U  S 

and  duly  weighed;  and  the  delightful  harmony  that  sub- 
sists between  the  Affections  of  the  different  subjects, 
will  be  likewise  more  fully  unfolded.  It  will  also  as- 
sist us  to  discern  the  principles  of  holy  wisdom,  ac- 
cording to  which  Affections  may  be  regulated  by  Af- 
fections. This  is  certainly  of  high  importance ;  though, 
as  a  help,  it  has  hitherto  been  seldom  noticed  or 
improved. 

3.  In  examining  the  Affections,  those  are  to  be 
considered  first,  which  are  expressly  named;  and,  af- 
terwards, those  which  are  not  immediately  declared. 
Thus,  by  proceeding  from  easier  to  more  difficult 
points,  we  shall  gradually  enter  into  the  Affections 
even  in  those  passages  that  afford  no  direct  indications 
of  them. 

4.  When  the  Affections  are  not  expressly  named, 
the  Text  should  be  examined  according  to  the  Cha- 
racteristics. Every  Characteristic  is  to  be  so  applied, 
both  carnal  and  spiritual ;  the  former  class  to  the  Af- 
fections of  those  persons  who  are  the  subjects  of  the 
discourse,  and  to  those  of  the  Writer;  and  the  latter, 
oftentimes  to  different  subjects,  but  specially  to  the 
Sacred  Penmen.  Wherever  we  recognise  a  Cha- 
racteristic, we  must  conclude  there  is  a  latent  Affec- 
tion; for  dissimulation  has  no  place  in  the  Word  of 
God. 

It  is  proper  here,  not  only  to  have  the  general 
■  ^eristics  of  the  Affections  ascertained,  but  like- 


144  APPENDIX. 

wise  those  which  are  special,  and  accommodated  t6 
individual  Affections.  The  reader  will  thus  easily  at- 
tain to  a  special,  as  well  as  general  knowledge  of  holy 
Affections. 

The  Characteristics  maybe  accommodated  not  only 
to  words,  but  likewise  to  actions,  and  entire  details. 

The  several  Characteristics  should  be  separately 
applied  to  the  subjects,  whenever  an  indiscriminate 
application  would  be  an  infringement  on  the  Spirit 
speaking  in  the  Scriptures.  The  reader  (especially 
if  one  of  the  Epistles  be  perused,)  may  be  considered 
as  standing  in  a  College,  where,  while  he  listens  to 
the  person  speaking,  and  hangs  as  it  were  upon  his 
lips;  the  Affections  of  those  who  are  absent,  and  those 
who  are  present,  are  successively  brought  before  him; 
and  he  learns  from  both,  what  to  imitate,  and  what  to 
avoid. 

It  would  be  exceedingly  useful,  to  have  the  several 
Affections  so  practically  developed,  from  carefully  ex- 
amining our  own;  that  we  might,  without  difficulty, 
express  their  Characteristics  in  perspicuous  and  suit- 
able words.  To  adopt  the  language  of  Franzius, 
Ci  when  the  mind  is  thus  engaged,  the  Word  will  be- 
tl  come  ineffably  sweet,-  and  inconceivably  precious.7' 
He  who  reposes  in  God  with  placid  and  calm  Affec- 
tion, may  contemplate  the  turbulent  passions  of  the 
human  heart,  as  well  as  the  gracious  emotions  excited 
in  a  sanctified  soul  by  the  Holy  Spirit;  and  by  tasting 


TREATISE  ON  THE  AFFECTIONS.  14$ 

of  Divine  wisdom,  perceive  its  nature  and  appreciate 
its  worth.  Here,  indeed,  an  inscrutable  abyss  will 
open  to  his  view;  and,  as  Luther  hath  remarked, 
"  meditation,  when  strengthened  and  supported  by 
"  frequent  exercise,  will  suggest  more,  much  more, 
"  than  all  our  commentaries  united."  May  the  reader 
be  encouraged  to  aspire  after  this  most  useful  and 
profitable  help! 

It  may  be  added,  that  exercise  will  be  cherished 
into  habit;  and  that  the  Characteristics  can  be  so  fa- 
miliarized by  patient  practice  and  pious  experience, 
as  to  leave  the  student  at  liberty  to  draw  them  from 
u  the  good  treasure  of  his  heart." 

5.  All  the  Circumstances  which  the  Text  supplies, 
or  which  may  be  otherwise  known,  should  be  weighed 
and  examined,  if  we  aim  at  forming  a  right  judgment 
of  the  latent  Affection.  Though  only  one  circum- 
stance remain  unknown,  a  very  different  Affection 
may  be  often  ascribed  to  the  speaker,  of  which  we 
have  frequent  examples,  even  in  familiar  conversation. 
The  Circumstances  Who?  What?  Where?  By  what 
means?  Why?  How?  When?  should  be,  as  much  as 
possible,  applied. 

The  Circumstance  which  may  be  more  remarkable 
in  one  place  than  in  another,  is  to  be  chiefly  urged; 
though,  in  particular  places,  the  major  part  contribute 
to  give  weight  to  the  Affections. 

All  Circumstances  are  not  always  necessary  to  be 


Apprxdi 

accommodated  to  ail  words.  Some  words  have  pe- 
culiar reference  to  particular  Circumstances,  and,  as 
it  were,  point  them  out.  It  is,  however,  necessary 
sometimes,  to  examine  all  the  Circumstances  accu- 
rately; and,  indeed,  the  more  attentive  the  student  is, 
the  more  will  he  enter  into  the  spirit  of  the  Text, 
and  the  mind  of  the  Holy  Penmen. 

6.  Love  is  justly  considered  as  the  Foundation, 
or  rather,  Source  of  every  Affection  in  the  Inspired 
Penmen. 

The  first  fruit  of  the  Spirit  (Gal.  v.  22.)  is  Love. 
This  Affection,  however,  sometimes  receives  different 
designations,  according  to  the  Circumstances.  Love 
to  God  and  man  was  the  pre-eminent  Affection  ki  the 
Soul  of  St.  Paul.  Hence,  when  he  addresses  peni- 
tent sinners  (as  in  his  second  Epistle  to  the  Corin- 
thians,) we  may  plainly  discover  that  his  Desire, 
Fear,  Hope,  Piety,  Joy,  in  short,  that  all  his  Affec- 
tions spring  from  Love. 

7.  Pronunciation,  or  the  modulation  of  the  voice 
in  uttering  any  text,  is,  by  no  means,  to  be  neglected. 

This  ever  follows  the  course  of  the  Affections  and 
the  dictates  of  nature;  and,  hence,  a  discourse  deli- 
vered viva  voc£y  is  much  more  easily  apprehended  than 
one  written.  So,  facts  which  the  eye  witnesses,  are 
far  more  convincing  than  those  which  are  related  to  us. 

The  deficiency  under  which  every  student  of  Scrip- 
tare,  in  this  respect,  labours,  may  be  supplied  by,  first. 


l'BE&TISE  ON  TBB  AFFECTIONS. 

using  every,  method  of  eliciting  the  true  meaning  of 
the  Text;  and,  then,  pronouncing  it  according  to  the 
sense  and  Affection  previously  and  carefully  ascer- 
tained. 

It  is  presumed,  however,  that  no  person  will  raise 
any  interpretation  of  Scripture,  on  the  foundation  of 
this,  or  any  other  help  alone;  but  apply  all  rules  of 
Exposition  in  regular  or3er.  He  who  neglects  this 
injunction,  will  often  deceive  others,  and  be  deceived 
himself. 

The  punctuation  and  other  distinctions  which  have, 
in  the  course  of  time,  been  introduced  into  the  Text, 
materially  affect  the  pronunciation,  and  will  often  lead 
the  reader  to  attribute  Affections,  which  the  passage, 
when  divested  of  its  human  appendages,  would  by  no 
means  warrant.  On  this  account,  we  should  lose  sight 
of  these  arbitrary  distinctions,  until  the  Affection  be 
ascertained.  Those  ancient  copies  in  which  the  Text 
is  |tet  divided  into  verses,  are,  in  this  view,  to  be 
preferred. 

0.  In  examining  the  Affections,  we  profit  chiefly 
by  an  ardent  and  holy  emulation  of  those  sacred  emo- 
tions which  we  contemplate  in  the  Inspired  Writers. 

The  more  we  "  put  on"  their  Affections,  the  more 
deeply  shall  we  enter  into  their  "Writings,  and  meditate 
on  the  truths  which  they  reveal.  Whenever  the  Affec- 
tions of  the  Sacred  Penmen  develope  and  unfold  them- 
selves, let  us  seek  to  possess  the  same  amiable  emo- 


1*8  APPENDIX*. 

lions,  and,  if  possible,  the  same  degree  of  them,  m 
our  own  bosoms;  and  let  as,  by  the  grace  of  God, 
strive  to  correct  every  irregularity  of  temper.  The 
meaning  of  Scripture,  thus  laid  up  in  the  heart,  rather 
than  the  head,  will  transform  our  souls  u  from  glory 
"  into  glory;"  and  we  shall  experience  that  "the 
il  word  of  God  is  quick  and  powerful,  and  sharper  than 
"  any  tworedged  sword;  piercing  even  to  the  dividing 
"  asunder  of  soul  and  spirit,  and  of  the  joints  and 
11  marrow;  and  is  a  discerner  of  the  thoughts  and  in- 
dents of  the  heart." 


* 


i 


ANALVSiS  O*  EFHEbiANS.  %& 


A.V 

ANALYSIS 

OF 

St  PAUL'S  EPISTLE  to  the  EPHESMNSs 


Xhe  Epistle  to  the  Ephesians  consists  of  two  parts] 
of  which,  the  one  is  comprehended  in  the  first  three 
chapters;  and  the  other,  in  the  last  three.  The  for- 
mer  may  be  termed  Doctrinal;  and  the  latter.  Infer- 
ential and  Hortatory. 

The  Doctrinal  Htsion  contains  one  Principal  Doc- 
trine^ Special  Doctrines  there  are,  indeed,  inter- 
spersed in  various  places;  but  either  they  are  adduced 
to  explain  and  enforce  the  Principal  one ;  or,  they  are 
derived  from  it. 

The  Principal  Doctrine  is  as  follows: — "  Although 
iC  a  difference  exists  between  Jewish  and  Gentile 
46  converts,  inasmuch  as  the  former  enjoyed  a  priority 
"  of  time,  in  point  of  expecting  and  acknowledging 
H  Christ;  and,  through  the  grace  of  God,  were  a 
u  Church  before  the  Gentiles:  yet,  now,  the  latter 
IS 


APPENDIX. 

"  are  become  partakers  of  the  same  grace  with  them; 
u  and,  being  admitted  to  this  communion  of  grace, 
"  every  real  distinction  is  abolished;  Jews  and  Gen- 
u  tiles  together,  forming  the  body  of  the  Church,  under 
u  one  head,  even  Christ." 

It  was  essentially  necessary  for  the  Ephesians,  and 
indeed  for  all  Gentile  converts,  that  this  doctrine 
should  be  asserted;  because  the  contentious  Jews, 
vain  of  their  national  prerogative,  would  acknowledge 
none  to  be  brethren,  who  did  not  submit  their  necks 
to  the  yoke  of  Judaism,  observe  the  law,  and  trust 
to  that  for  justification.  Hence,  the  apostle  considers 
the  subject,  not  only  in  the  present  Epistle,  but  in 
most  others;  namely,  Romans,  Chap.  i.  16.  Philippi  • 
ans,  Chap.  iii.  1  Tim.  Chap.  i.  and  in  the  Epistles 
to  the  Colossians  and  Galatians.  In  his  mode  of 
handling  the  doctrine,  there  is,  hnwever,  some  diffe- 
rence; accommodated  to  the  pecinRr  circumstances  of 

of  il 

and  not  of  the  law;  because  the  false  apostles  main- 
tained the  contrary:  at  other  times,  he  exhorts  the 
brethren  to  guard  against  such  men,  adding  his  rea- 
sons for  the  admonition:  sometimes,  he  onlj^  recalls 
them  from  the  tenets  of  these  persons,  to  the  true 
faith,  &c.  In  this  Epistle,  however,  he  aims  at  sub- 
verting the  very  foundation  of  the  opponents'  doctrine 
(though  in  what  Chemnitius  terms  a  catechetical  man- 


the  several  churches  addressed.     Sometimes,  i^kthe 
npostle's  object  to  prove  that  justification  is  <^Taith 


ANALY9I 

tier,)  which  rested  on  the  boasted  prerogative  that  the 
Jews  enjoyed  over  the  Gentiles,  in  point  of  time. (a) 

The  apostle,  in  order  to  the  more  effectual  accom- 
plishment of  this  his  object,  propounds,  in  the  first 
place,  the  proper  prerogative  of  the  Jewish  nation 
(which  he  had  likewise  done  Rom.  iii. ;)  lest,  by  pass- 
ing in  silence  over  those  privileges,  which  might  and 
ought  to  be  claimed  in  his  countrymen's  behalf,  he 
should  do  an  injury  to  himself,  who  was  a  Jew;  to  his 
own  nation;  and,  which  is  of  infinitely  greater  moment, 
to  the  truth  itself.  Hence,  (Chap.  i.  to  verse  13.,) 
after  the  usual  salutations,  he  directs  his  attention 
solely  to  demonstrate  the  proper  privilege  of  the 
Jews.  At  first  sight,  this  position  may  appear  doubt- 
ful ;  but  the  whole  structure  of  the  epistle  will  evidence 
its  validity,  as  soon  as  the  mind  has  comprehended  it; 
and,  until  that  be  the  case,  no  just  opinion  on  the 
point  can  possibly  be  formed. 

The  apostle's  arguments  have  an  immediate  ten- 
dency to  this  in  Chap.  i. — for,  first,  the  evident  dis- 
tinction there  observed  in  the  application  of  the  per- 
sonal pronouns,  can  have  no  other  meaning.  After 
using,  as  far  as  verse  12.  the  pronoun  of  the  first 
person,  we,  ws,  &,c.  he  continually  adopts  the  pronoun 
of  the  second,  in  the  following  verses.  Hence,  he 
thus  connects  the  thirteenth  verse — u  In  whom  ye 
also;"  which  plainly  indicates  a  diversity  in  the  sub- 
ject?: and  he  continues  to  use  this  pronoun,  until  ho 


153  APPENDIX. 

institutes  a  new  comparison  between  the  subjects 
(Chap.  i.  ver.  9.,)  when,  speaking  in  reference  to  the 
Jews,   he  says  "  to  us."     Compare  Chap.  ii.  verse 

I.  where,  with  a  view  to  the  Gentiles,  he  uses  the 
phrase  "  to  you."     If  we  now  collate  Chap.  ii.  ver. 

II,  12,  13,  Sic.  we  shall  find  the  different  subjects, 
hitherto  represented  by  these  different  pronouns;  ex- 
pressly named — u  the  uncircumcision"  (Gentiles;) 
and  a  the  circumcision"  (Jews.) 

It  is  another  circumstance  which  evidences  the 
truth  of  this  position,  that,  secondly,  the  predicate 
restricts  the  former  part  of  the  chapter  to  the  Jews: 
thus  they  are  called  (ver.  12.)  "  those  who  first  trust- 
ed in  Christ."  The  objection  which  lies  against 
u  predestinate"  (npoopi&ui)  on  the  ground  of  its  being 
a  general  word,  and  indicative  of  a  priority  of  time, 
and  not  of  a  priority  of  subjects,  cannot  militate 
against  u  to  trust  first"  (vrpisXTngeiVj)  because  this 
latter  word  must  include  both ;  since  the  trusting  here 
mentioned  is  inevitably  to  be  referred  to  man,  and  not 
to  God;  as  indeed  the  text  itself  refers  it 

Again,  it  is  said,  in  the  ninth  and  following  verses? 
that  the  mystery  of  the  divine  will  was  revealed  to 
them,  in  order  that  it  might  be  dispensed  (en;  otxovo- 
ftiav)  in  the  fulness  of  time;  and  that  all  things  (Gen- 
tiles as  well  as  Jews)  might  be  reduced  under  one 
head,  even  Christ.  There  had  been  therefore  those, 
to  whom  a  revelation  was  made  previously  to  the  ge- 


ANALYSIS  OF  EPHESIAKS-  153 

Eeral  dispensation,  &c;  but,  in  the  thirteenth  and 
subsequent  verses,  the  apostle  asserts,  that  the  same 
benefits  which  God  had  before  conferred  on  the  Jews, 
were  now  become  common  to  the  Gentiles;  priority 
of  time  being  excepted.  His  words  are — "  In  whom 
"  ye  (Gentiles)  also  trusted,  after  that  ye  heard  the 
u  word  of  truth,  the  gospel  of  your  salvation;  in  whom 
u  also,  after  that  ye  believed,  ye  were  sealed  with  that 
"  Holy  Spirit  of  promise,  which  is  the  earnest  of 
"  our  (the  Jews')  inheritance;5'  that  spiritual  inherit- 
ance mentioned  in  the  preceding  verses :  "  Wherefore 
"  I  also,  after  I  heard  of  your  faith  in  the  Lord  Jesus, 
*f  and  love  unto  all  the  saints,  &,c." 

It  is  the  same  subject  (the  Gentiles)  which  our 
apostle  pursues  to  verse  3.  of  chapter  ii. ;  and  this  we 
shall  easily  discern,  if  we  neglect  the  divisions  into 
chapters,  and  consider  the  whole  structure  of  the  text^ 
harmonizing  together  in  all  its  parts. — u  That  you 
a  may  know  what  is  the  exceeding  greatness  of  his 
"power  to  us-ward,  who  believe  according  to  the 
"  working  of  his  mighty  power,  which  he  wrought  in 
"  Christ,  when  he  raised  him  from  the  dead  (and  set 
"  him  at  his  own  right  hand  in  the  heavenly  places,  far 
c*  above  all  principality,  and  power,  and  might,  and 
"  dominion,  and  every  name  that  is  named,  not  only  in 
"  this  world,  but  in  that  which  is  to  come:  and  hath 
iC  put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave  him  to  be  the 
"  head  over  all  things  to  the  church,  which  is  his  body, 
13* 


APPENDIX 

/ 

<c  the  fulness  of  him  that  filleth  all  in  all.)  And  you 
u  who  were  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins,  wherein,  in 
"  times  past,  ye  walked,  &c." 

No  sooner,  however,  does  the  apostle  descend  to 
the  original  state  of  the  Gentiles,  than  he  institutes  a 
comparison  between  it,  and  the  primeval  state  of  the 
Jews:  lest  the  latter  people  should  take  occasion  to  as- 
sert some  new  prerogative.  He  now  therefore  proves  by 
the  testimony  of  the  consciences  of  each,  that  Jews, 
as  well  as  Gentiles,  were,  before  Christ,  under  sin 
(an  argument  which  he  had  discussed  under  a  different 
form,  Rom.  Chap,  iii.)  and  that  both  were  saved  and 
brought  to  newness  of  life,  by  grace  alone.  Hence, 
in  the  second  and  following  verses,  he  declares  the 
whole  matter  in  direct  terms. 

These  verses,  united  with  those  subsequent,  as  far 
as  Chap.  iii.  comprehend  the  Principal  Conclusion  of 
the  whole  epistle,  which  fully  developes  its  Scope. 
The  Conclusion  is — a  Though  the  Gentiles  were  not 
i:  originally  possessed  of  the  covenants  of  promise,  or 
4i  any  foundation  of  hope,  jety  in  Christ,  they,  toge- 
u  ther  with  the  Jews,  were  made  partakers  of  every 
u  benefit;  he  having  removed  all  things  which  opposed 
"  their  uniting  with  the  Jews  into  one  body,  and  hav- 
a  ing,  on  the  other  hand,  joined  things  the  most  op- 
"  posite  (Jews  and  Gentiles,)  by  abolishing  the  law. 
"  Hence,  the  Gentiles  were  not  now,  (as  the  Jewish 
"false  apostles  asserted,")  strangers  and  aliens:,  but 


ANALYSIS  OF  fcPHfiSIANS. 

u  being  reconciled  to  Gcd  by  the  blood  of  Christy 
a  they  were  become  fellow-citizens*  wi&f  the  saints,- 
u  and  of  the  household  of  God."  **  9 

These  things  are  so  obvious,  that  no  doubts  caa 
remain  with  respect  to  the  observations  we  made  on 
the  diversity  of  the  subjects.  The  Conclusion  ex- 
pressed above,  is  afterwards  delivered  by  the  apostle 
in  a  fine  similitude;  a  similitude  sometimes  adopted  by 
Christ  himself,  as  well  as  the  apostles  and  prophets. 
He  compares  the  Church  to  a  building,  and  considers 
Christ  as  the  corner-stone;  with  which  the  Jews  first, 
but  the  Gentiles  no  less  afterwards,  were  built  up  to- 
gether as  an  habitation.  Finally,  as  is  the  custom 
with  our  apostle,  he  includes  in  this  similitude,  or  al- 
legory, the  subject-matter  of  the  prayers  which  he 
offered  up  to  God  for  the  Gentiles  (Chap.  iii.  ver.  1. 
and  14,  15,  16,  17,  18,  19,  of  which  ver.  17,  18.  are 
best  explained  by  the  similitude,)  and  then  closes  the 
whole  with  a  doxology. 

Our  connecting  ver.  1.  of  chap.  iii.  with  ver.  14.  is 
a  circumstance  by  no  means  singular,  and  was  not  done 
without  grounds;  being,  as  we  shall  show,  conforma- 
ble to  the  intention  of  the  apostle.  If  we  examine 
the  first  verse,  we  see  that  he  names  the  Subject: — 
u  For  this  cause,  I,  Paul,  the  prisoner  of  Jesus 
i:  Christ  for  ycu  Gentiles."  He  then  forms  the  Pre- 
dicate, and  repeats  the  same  words: — "  For  this  cause 
u  (I  say,)  I  hr>w  my  kne°*  "     On  this  atcoQgt*  we 


156  APPENDIX. 

insulate  all  the  words  that  intervene  between  ver.  2. 
and  ver.  14;  or,  if  such  a  mode  be  preferred,  we  may 
consider  them  as  a  description  of  the  Subject. 

The  extent  of  the  parenthesis  in  question,  is  no 
just  argument  against  the  truth  of  our  position.  A 
diffuse  style  is  the  genius  of  Paul's  writing,  and  arose 
from  his  abundant  and  ardent  love.  Often,  when  we 
might  be  led  to  think  he  had  forgotten  himself,  he 
suddenly  returns  to  his  subject,  and  pursues  the  thread 
of  his  discourse.  The  Fathers  were  acquainted  with 
this  peculiarity  in  his  style ;  and  it  is  requisite  that  we 
should  observe  it,  because  it  frequently  happens,  that 
we  cannot  else  enter  into  the  meaning  of  the  apostle. 

Instances  of  equally  copious  parentheses  occur  in 
various  parts  of  the  writings  of  St.  Paul.  The  first 
epistle  to  Timothy  furnishes  us  with  one  from  verse 
8.  of  chap.  i.  to  verse  17.  inclusive.  There,  taking 
Occasion  from  the  false  teachers,  Paul  speaks  ol  the 
true  and  proper  use  of  the  Law,  according  to  the  Gos- 
pel committed  to  him;  and  having  given  vent  to  the 
feelings  of  his  heart,  he  returns  ver  18.  to  the  scope 
he  had  in  view  in  the  third  verse_,  where  he  intimates, 
by  using  the  comparative  particle  as  {%<l$uc)  that  the 
completion  of  the  sense  was  to  be  expected  in  the  sub- 
sequent verses.  The  whole  of  the  discourse  connects 
thus: — "  As  I  besought  thee  to  charge  some  that  they 
"  teach  no  other  doctrine,  but  seek  after  godly  edify- 
a  ing;  aj)d  that  the  end  of  the  commandment  was  love, 


ANALYSIS  OF  EPHESIANS.  Itf 

"  out  of  a  pure  neart,  and  of  a  good  conscience,  and 
«  of  faith  unfeigned,  &c. — so  now,  I  commit  the  same 
"  charge  unto  thee — that  thou  mayest  hold  faith  and 
"  a  good  conscience,  &c.*' 

Another  instance  of  it,  we  see  in  Phil.  i.  27.  to 
Chap  ii.  16.  inclusive.  The  apostle  in  a  peculiar  pa* 
renthesis  discusses  a  subject,  the  proposition  of  which 
is  contained  Chap.  i.  27.  and  afterwards  (Chap.  ii.  17.) 
he  returns  to  what  he  was  discoursing  of  in  the  pre- 
ceding chapter.  In  conformity  with  this  statement, 
we  find  (Chap.  i.  23.)  that  Paul  says  he  is  influenced 
by  two  things,  a  desire  both  of  life  and  death;  but  he 
knows  not  which  of  these  to  choose.  Death  is  most 
desirable  to  himself,  but  the  welfare  of  the  Philip- 
pians  requires  rather  that  he  may  be  spared  a  little 
longer:  and,  having  this  confidence,  he  is  assured 
that  his  life  will  be  lengthened,  and  that  he  shall  see 
them  again  in  person.  Then,  after  the  interruption 
which  his  discourse  had  received,  he  proceeds  (Chap, 
ii.  17.)  as  follows: — <l  Yea,  and  if  I  be  offered  upon 
cc  the  sacrifice  and  service  of  your  faith,  I  joy  and  re- 
"joice  with  you  all."  The  intervening  charge  is 
happily  and  judiciously  introduced  by  the  apostle,  in 
order  that  the  Philippians  might  not  remit  their  exer- 
tions until  his  arrival,  but  contend  for  the  faith  of  the 
Gospel  with  unity  and  humility.  This  cannot  but  be 
evident  to  those  who  examine  the  point  with  attention 
^.nd  candour. 


158  APPENDIX. 

It  is,  however,  proper  to  observe,  that  the  words 
which  are  thus  insulated  are  never  superfluous;  but 
arise  either  from  some  pressing  necessity,  or  from  the 
apostle's  ardent  love.  In  this  epistle  to  the  Ephe- 
sians,  for  instance,  how  forcibly  does  the  description 
of  the  subject  insulated  by  the  parenthesis,  elucidate 
the  point  which  Paul  had  to  prove.  For,  if  God  had 
committed  to  the  Apostle  a  dispensation  of  grace  for 
the  Gentiles,  and  the  revealed  mystery  of  Christ,  that 
the  Gentiles  were  co-heirs,  members  of  the  same  body, 
and  partakers  together  with  the  Jews,  of  the  promise 
in  Christ;  Paul  undertook  the  ministry  through  the 
gospel,  and  conformably  with  the  gift  of  that  grace 
(which  is  all  contained  in  Chap.  iii. ;)  and  thence  it 
certainly  follows,  tbat  the  Gentiles  were  not  to  be  ex- 
cluded from  communion  with  the  Jews  in  Christ. 

The  other  part  of  the  Epistle  is  hortatory,  and 
flows  from  the  doctrinal  part,  as  a  stream  from  its 
fountain.  It  is,  indeed,  St.  Paul's  usual  custom  in 
his  epistles,  to  connect  practicals  and  theoreticals;  in 
order  that  they  may  mutually  illustrate  and  confirm 
each  other.  With  him,  however,  the  injunctions  of 
Practice  follow  the  positions  of  Theory,  that  the 
reader,  when  he  has  inspected  the  fountain,  may  ad- 
mit the  streams  into  his  bosom  in  all  their  sweetness 
and  rich  abundance.  The  best  example  of  this,  is 
contained  in  the  epistle  to  the  Colossians,  one  part  of 
which  refers  to  faith,  and  the  other  to  practice :  and 


ANALYSIS  OF  EPHESIAN3.  159 

indeed  these  two  epistles,  the  Colossians  aad  Ephe- 
sians,  are  well  fitted  to  explain  one  another. 

The  main  exhortation  that  arises  from  the  princi- 
pal Doctrine,  is — concord  and  peace  between  Jew 
and  Gentile.     This  may  not  improperly  be  termed  the 
General  Scope  of  the  whole  epistle,  which  is  fully 
enforced  from  Chap.  iv.  ver.  1.  to  ver.  16.  inclusive. 
St  Paul's  next  object  is  to  lay  before  Jew  and  C 
tile,  the  difference  between  their  present  and  (NS. 
state,  estimated  from  comparing  their  presen 
their  former  manners.    In  order  to  this  (1.)  he  p 
out  the  difference,  from  ver.  17.  to  ver.  24;  (2.*  to 
lays  down  some  particular  precepts,  which  are,  hos^ 
ever,  universally  binding — particular,  in  reference  to 
the  precept  given — universal,  in  reference  to  those  on 
whom  it  was  enjoined,  ver.  25.  to  chap.  v.  ver.  21. 
inclusive;  (3.)  he  delivers  to  all,  according  to  their 
different  stations  in  life,  divers  and  particular  com- 
mandments—to wives,  ver.  22.  to  the  end — to  chil- 
dren, chap.  vi.  ver.  1 — 3. — to  parents,  ver.  4.— to 
servants,  ver.  5 — 8. — to  masters,  ver.  9.  Here  Paul 
adopts  the  same  method,  always  placing  inferiors  be- 
fore superiors;  and  the  weaker  before  the  stronger. 
He  likewise  puts  generals  before  specials  throughout 
the  whole  epistle,  which  is  the  best  mode  of  arrange- 
ment (see  Col.  iii.  ver.  18.  &c.  and  1  Pet.  chap.  iii. 
ver.  1 — 7,  &,c.,)  and  draws  all  his  arguments  relative 
to  any  particular  scope,  from  the  principal  Doctrine 


iwb  APPENDIX. 

propounded  in  the  foregoing  part,  as  plainly  appears 
from  chap.  v.  ver.  23.  &c.  (4.)  He  furnishes  means 
for  the  attainment  of  the  things  enjoined,  and  for  de- 
fending them  "  against  the  wiles  of  the  devil,"  to 
chap.  vi.  20.  inclusive. 

These  things  being  explained,  and  Tychicus,  the 
bearer  of  the  epistle,  being  directed  to  give  the  Ephe- 

<&Bh£  fuller  information  concerning  St.  Paul,  (ver.  21, 

the  Ge  e  concludes  with  saluting  them,  and  invoking 

the  Geivine  blessing, 

and  pr 

in  CI 

gosr 


AS  AtA  SIS  OF  COLOSSIAXS.  l6i 


AN 

ANALYTICAL  INTRODUCTION 

TO 

St  PAUL'S  EPISTLE  to  the  COLOSSMJYS. 


x  he  Occasion  of  the  apostle's  penning  the  epistle  to 
the  Colossians,  may  be  safely  collected  from  the  lnV 
toxical  circumstances,  which  are  partly  expressed  and 
partly  implied,  (a) 

For,  first,  the  apostle  expressly  mentions  (ver. 
3 — 8.)  the  conversion  of  the  Colossians,  effected  un- 
der the  ministry  of  Epaphras;  and  the  accounts  which 
had  been  given  him  by  that  servant  of  God,  concern- 
ing the  present  state  of  their  church. 

Secondly,  Paul  declares  in  express  terms  (chap, 
ii.  ver.  1.)  that  he  endured  a  great  conflict  for  those 
churches  which  he  had  not  seen  in  the  flesh,  and; 
amongst  the  rest,  for  this  church.  No  means  there- 
fore could  have  been  adopted,  better  calculated  to 
strengthen  the  Colossians,  than  letters  from  himself 
who  was  now  absent  and  a  prisoner. 

Thirdly^  He  intimates  (chap,  ii,  ver.  7;  8.)  that 
14 


1G2  APPENDIX. 

the  church  was,  at  that  time,  troubled  with  ci  enticing 
"  words,  philosophy,  and  vain  deceit,  after  the  rudi- 
u  ments  of  the  world."  He  also  shows,  by  borrow- 
ing arguments  from  evangelical  doctrines,  in  order  to 
combat  legal  teachers,  and  by  the  inferences  which 
be  draws  from  those  arguments,  that  certain  Judai- 
zino-  Christians  burthened  the  consciences  of  the  Co- 

o 

lossian  converts,  by  enjoining  on  them  the  observance 
of  the  ceremonial  law:  the  necessity  of  circumcision 
(ver.  11;)  of  keeping  particular  days  (ver.  16.;)  and 
of  abstaining  from  divers  kinds  of  meats  (ver.  16,  and 
21.;)  from  which,  as  an  intolerable  yoke,  the  Fathers 
had  deemed  it  necessary  to  deliver  the  Gentile  church. 
Collate  Acts  xxv.  wjth  Gal.  v.  3,  4,  &c. 

Fourthly,  If  we  rightly  consider  what  is  said 
concerning  Epaphras,  at  the  commencement  and 
conclusion  of  the  epistle,  we  shall  probably  infer,  that, 
while  he  was  earnestly  commending  to  Paul  the  faith 
and  love  of  the  new  converts,  and  while  glowing  with 
holy  zeal  for  their  welfare;  he  moved  the  apostle  by 
his  entreaties,  to  dispatch  this  letter  to  Colosse  and 
Laodicea:  (chap.  i.  ver.  8.  and  chap.  iv.  ver.  12.  and 
13.)  The  joy  consequent  on  sending  the  epistle,  was 
doubtless  shared  by  Tychicus  (Acts  xx.  ver.  4. ;)  by 
Onesimus,  himself  a  Colossian;  (b)  by  Aristarchus 
(Acts,  chap.  xix.  ver.  29.  and  chap.  xx.  ver.  4. ;)  by 
Mark  (Acts,  chap.  xii.  ver.  12.  and  chap.  xv.  ver.  37. 
38.;)  by  Jesus  surnamed  Justus,  by  Epaphras,  D?- 


AN  ALA  STB  Oi  COLOSSI  A  a  S.  163 

mas,  and  Luke  (Acts  xxvii.  ver.  l.j)  names  dear  to 
the  Colossians,  and  with  which  they  were  well  ac- 
quainted (Col.  iv.  ver.  7.)  &c. 

Here  we  may  remark,  that  the  Acts  of  the  Apos- 
tles, and  especially  the  fifteenth  chapter  of  them,  are 
frequently  adduced  to  explain  the  Occasion  of  writing 
this  epistle.  The  historical  books,  and  in  particular 
that  just  mentioned,  throw  light  on  all  the  other  books 
of  the  New  Testament;  the  historical  books  of  the 
Old  Testament  perform  the  same  service  for  the  Pro- 
phets; and  the  books  of  Moses  elucidate  the  writings 
of  both  Testaments.  But  Chap.  xv.  of  the  Acts,  is 
of  special  assistance  in  attaining  to  a  right  understand- 
ing of  the  epistles  of  St.  Paul. 

The  Apostle's  Scope.  These  points  being  premi- 
sed, we  may  easily  ascertain  the  Scope  of  the  whole 
epistle.  This  was,  that  Paul,  in  obedience  to  his 
duty  as  an  apostle,  might  confirm  the  Colossian  con- 
verts in  the  doctrines  of  faith,  and  in  seeking  after 
that  holiness  which  flows  from  them.  Collate  chap, 
ii.  ver.  1 — 7,  with  chap  i.  ver.  9 — 12.  It  was  also, 
that  he  might  seasonably  heal  the  breaches  made  by 
Jewish  errors,  which  had  spread,  and  were  perhaps 
still  prevailing;  and  that  he  might  deliver  the  church 
from  the  evils  which  these  errors  had  induced;  as 
well  as  avert  from  it,  those  which  he  foresaw  would 
be  consequent  on  this  "  vain  deceit." 

It  very  evidently  appears  from  the  whole  structure 


JGi  APPENDIX. 

of  the  epistle,  that  the  sole  reason  the  apostle  had  for 
so  carefully  confirming  the  Colossians  in  the  purer 
doctrines  of  faith,  was  a  fear  lest  they  should  be  in- 
jured by  the  pernicious  opinions  of  heretical  men. 
Hence,  this,  like  many  of  St.  Paul's  epistles,  may 
and  ought  to  be  termed  polemical;  and  the  apostle 
himself  makes  all  the  doctrines  stated  have  a  reference 
to  it,  when  he  says — "  This  I  say  (txtc  h  Aeyo>)  lest 
u  any  man  should  beguile  you  with  enticing  words;'' 
chap.  ii.  ver.  4.  The  declaration  contained  in  these 
words  should  be  well  considered,  as  we  recognize  in 
it  the  true  and  genuine  Scope  of  the  whole  epistle, 
expressed  in  Paul's  own  words;  and  thence  we  may 
likewise  safely  conclude  it  to  be  of  the  polemical  kind. 
That  this  mode  of  announcing  the  Scope  of  a  whole 
book  is  usual  in  Scripture,  we  may  learn  from  1  Tim. 
chap.  iii.  ver.  14.  John  chap.  xx.  ver.  31.  1  John 
chap.  ii.  ver.  26.  2  Peter  chap.  iii.  ver.  1.  &c. 

The  Method.  The  method  of  managing  a  contro- 
versy which  our  apostle  adopts,  is  not  to  enter  the 
lists  with  his  antagonists,  and  thus  gratify  their  de- 
sires to  contend  (a  practice  from  which  he  testifies 
that  his  mind  was  most  abhorrent,  1  Cor.  chap.  xi. 
ver.  16.;)  but  his  plan  was,  to  address  an  epistle  to 
those  churches  that  were  infested  with  false  teachers, 
and  by  confirming  them  in  the  principles  of  genuine 
doctrine,  to  foil  the  attempts  of  the  adversaries  of  tha 
truth. 


A^vlASISoJ/  [AN8L  165 

The  controversy  which  he  holds  in  the  epistle  be- 
fore us,  was  the  principal  one  of  that  age,  and  engaged 
the  special  attention  of  the  apostle  of  the  Gentiles, 
His  discussion  of  it  has  proved  a  considerable  blessing 
to  posterity,  because  the  mode  of  obtaining  salvation 
depended  so  much  on  the  present  controversy,  as  to 
involve  in  its  own,  the  decision  of  almost  every  other 
question.  Hence,  if  we  weigh  the  apostle's  Scope, 
and  examine  his  method  of  treating  it,  we  must  ne- 
cessarily set  a  high  value  on  this  epistle,  and  consider 
it  as  fundamental;  as  one  that  embraces  the  Order, 
Structure,  and  Harmony  of  the  Christian  system  with 
so  peculiar  a  propriety,  that  not  only  the  young  con- 
vert cannot  desire  a  more  excellent  confirmation  of  the 
doctrines  he  has  espoused;  but  even  the  more  esta- 
blished, those  who  have  groaned  under  many  and  va- 
rious temptations,  may  revert  to  these  first  principles 
with  avidity  and  delight,  and  find  the  repose  which 
they  had  vainly  sought  elsewhere. 

Historical  Recapitulation  of  the  Scope.  The 
Scope  of  the  apostle  may  be  briefly  stated  thus. 
Epaphras  had  brought  to  Paul,  the  glad,  tidings  of 
the  conversion  of  the  Colossians,  and  faithfully  set 
forth  the  dangers  with  which  they  were  threatened; 
and  as  the  apostle  felt  especially  concerned  for  the 
welfare  of  those  churches  to  whom  he  had  not  himself 
preached  the  gospel,  and  consequently  for  that  at  Co- 
losse;  as  he  was  anxious  they  should  preserve  theiF 
14* 


166  APPENDIX, 

purity  of  faith,  and  that  integrity  of  life  which  is  the 
fruit  of  it;  he  wrote  this  epistle  to  them,  by  virtue  of  his 
Office,  under  the  influences  of  the  Spirit,  and  perhaps 
actuated  by  the  intreaties  of  faithful  Epaphras.  In 
it,  he  fully  explains  the  proper  foundations  of  the 
Christian  doctrine,  in  order  that  the  Colossians  might 
be  assured,  that  the  way  into  which  they  were  guided 
by  the  ministry  of  Epaphras,  was  the  saving  and  right 
way.  He  also  wisely  and  providently  endeavours 
to  avert  from  them  all  heterodox  opinions,  and  all  dan- 
ger of  corruption  either  in  doctrine  or  practice. 

TJie  Division.  With  respect  to  the  Division  of 
the  epistle,  it  is  so  plain  and  natural  as  easily  to  be 
distinguished  by  the  attentive  reader.  After  the  In- 
scription (chap.  i.  ver.  1,2.)  the  epistle  may  be  said 
to  comprehend  an  Exordium,  chap.  i.  ver.  3 — 8;  a 
Proposition,  ver.  9 — 12;  a  Confirmation,  chap.  i.  ver. 
13,  to  chap.  iv.  ver.  7;  and  a  Conclusion. 

The  Exordium.  The  Exordium  evidently  unfolds 
the  Occasion  of  writing,  and  therefore  does  not  re- 
quire a  regular  analysis.  But  it  is  worthy  of  particu- 
lar remark,  that  the  apostle  has  placed  that  first, 
which,  following  the  natural  order,  we  should  have 
placed  last.  The  Exordium  would  then  have  run 
thus:' — "Epaphras  has  declared  to  me  your  love 
"  in  the  Spirit,  and  that  God  by  his  ministry,  has 
Cl  made  you  partakers  of  the  Gospel  and  its  blessed 
"fruits.     Understanding   therefore,   your  faith  and 


ANALYSIS  OF  COLOSSI ANS.  i 67 

u  love,  which  you  have  derived  from  the  promise  of 
*"  everlasting  life,  we  have  thankfully  adored  the  rich- 
<c  es  of  divine  grace,  and  recommended  you  to  God  in 
ft  ceaseless  prayers. "—The  apostle,  however,  leaves 
the  natural  and  obvious  order;  and,  after  mentioning 
his  thanksgivings  and  his  prayers,  proceeds  to  speak 
of  that  which  lay  nearest  his  heart:  to  glorify  the 
Lord  for  the  mercy  he  had  shown  the  Colossians,  and 
invoke  his  continued  blessing  on  their  church.  If 
this  remark  be  applied  elsewhere,  the  Analysis  will  in 
many  instances  become  easier,  and  Paul's  inward  af- 
fections be  better  conceived. 

The  Proposition,  The  Proposition  (ver.  9 — 12.,) 
flowing  from  the  apostle's  abundant  love,  assumes  the 
form  of  a  prayer;  and  is  couched  in  exquisite  and  en- 
ergetic language,  indicative  of  that  tender  concern  for 
the  Corinthians,  by  which  he  was  actuated.  Had  he 
been  uninfluenced  by  this  Affection,  he  would  pro- 
bably have  expressed  himself  thus: — u  I  write  in  or- 
u  der  that  you,  who  are  now  so  much  endangered  by 
c:  the  errors  of  heresy,  may,  through  God's  grace,  ob- 
"  tain  an  increasing  acquaintance  with  saving  doctrine 
fl  and  spiritual  wisdom;  and  that  you  may  abound  in 
"  desires  after  holiness,  although  now  entangled  in  so 
"  many  fleshly  and  worldly  deceits."  But  the  apos- 
tle, agreeably  to  the  feelings  we  have  recognized  in 
him,  sweetly  explains,  declares,  and,  as  it  were,  insi- 
nuates into  the  hearts  of  the  Colossians,  this  the  scope 


16S  APPENDIX. 

of  his  mind.  Hence  it  happens,  that  he  introduces 
the  subject  which  forms  the  principal  Proposition,  not 
so  much  as  the  scope  of  his  present  epistle,  as  the 
constant  theme  of  his  prayers.  He  likewise  promises 
them,  a  most  abundant  measure  and  increase  of  divine 
grace — by  praying  for  it  with  the  most  affecting  ear- 
nestness (ver.  11.;)  and  himself,  the  joy  of  acknow- 
ledging the  infinite  mercy  of  God  in  respect  to  them 
(ver.  12.)  The  remark  made  concerning  the  Exor- 
dium, may  be  very  properly  repeated  here :  namely, 
that  the  apostle  opens  with  that  which  most  engaged 
.  his  affections;  and  thus  the  Proposition  varies  a  little 
from  the  natural  and  accustomed  order. 

The  Confirmation.  This  may  be  divided  into  two 
parts;  first,  a  Confirmation  in  the  genuine  foundation 
of  faith,  opposed  to  the  prevailing  errors  of  the  here- 
tics; secondly,  an  Exhortation  to  seek,  with  earnest 
care,  after  holiness  of  life.  The  first  part  is  Doctri- 
nal (chap.  i.  ver.  13.  to  chap.  ii.  ver.  3.:)  and  Elen- 
chtical  (chap.  ii.  ver.  4.  to  chap   iii.  ver.  4.) 

In  the  Doctrinal  part,  he  lays  down  (1.)  the  Pro- 
position, which  is  couched  in  clear  and  weighty  lan- 
guage (chap.  i.  ver.  3.;)  (2  )  the  Exposition  of  the 
Proposition — from  the  dignity  of  the  Person  (ver. 
15— 19.— and  Office  of  Christ  (ver.  2Q.;)  aad  (3.) 
the  Doctrinal  Application  of  the  Proposition.  He 
shows  that  the  Colossians  had  happily  become  par- 
takers of  this  saving  doctrine  (ver.  21,  22.;)  whirh 


ANALYSIS  OF  COLQSSIANS:  109 

doctrine  then  forms  the  ground  of  an  Application  re- 
plete with  instruction  and  sweetness,  and  very  conform- 
able to  the  Scope  (ver.  23.)  The  words  are  likewise 
well  adapted  to  it,  and  in  themselves  most  emphatic. 

The  perversions  of  the  legal  teachers  who  opposed 
the  Gospel,  were  in  no  small  degree  dangerous;  so 
that  Paul  might  justly  fear,  lest,  yielding  to  the  de- 
ceitful arguments  of  those  sophists,  they  should  de- 
sert the  simple  truth  which  they  had  before  espoused. 
Hence,  as  we  observed,  the  words  "  from  the  hope  o! 
Ci  the  Gospel  which  you  have  heard,"  are  efcphatic; 
and  hence  the  argument  "  which  was  preached  to  eve- 
u  ry  creature  under  heaven,"  wherewith  he  confirms 
his  instructions,  is  so  likewise :  for  the  apostle  espe- 
cially wished  to  inculcate  on  their  minds,  that  the  gos- 
pel which  they  had  heard  from  Epaphras,  was  the 
same  gospel  that  was  preached  "  to  every  creature 
"  under  heaven." 

The  second  Doctrinal  Application  is  therefore  very 
aptly  connected  (ver.  23.) — "  whereof  I,  Paul,  am 
a  made  a  minister,"  &c.  For  he  shows,  that  the  very 
Truth  which  he  propounded,  was  the  express  and  ge- 
nuine Object  of  his  Apostleship,  for  the  sake  of  which 
he  had  become  a  partaker  of  the  sufferings  of  Christ. 
Since  too,  it  was  especially  necessary  to  the  Colossian 
church,  that  this  Object  should  be  fully  understood 
and  explored,  he  commences  with  passing  on  it  a  me~ 
rited  euloginm  (ver.  25 — 27. :)  speaking  of  it  as  a 


APPENDIX. 

mystery  of  Christ's  manifestation  to  the  Gentiles,which 
he  had  been  sent  into  the  world  to  announce;  and 
thence  he  makes  a  very  apt  transition  to  the  third 
Doctrinal  Application.  Here,  he  points  out  the  way 
in  which  he  was  to  discharge  the  office  committed  to 
him,  as  well  towards  men  in  general  (ver.  28,  29.;) 
as  towards  the  Colossians  and  Laodiceans  in  particu- 
lar, and  all  those  who  had  not  seen  his  face  in  the  flesh: 
(chap.  ii.  ver.  1,  2,  3.) 

If  this  threefold  Doctrinal  Application  be  well  con- 
sidered, we  shall  conclude  that  nothing  could  have 
been  said,  more  apposite  to  the  state  of  the  Colossian 
church.  What  indeed  would  so  effectually  confirm 
them  in  the  doctrine  they  had  embraced  under  Epaph- 
ras,  as  St.  Paul's  assurance  that  it  was  genuine;  that 
it  was  the  very  Truth  which  he  deemed  it  the  object 
of  his  mission  to  publish  to  the  world;  and  that  they  had 
become  the  subjects  of  his  rejoicing  and  the  objects  of 
his  care,  because  they  espoused  it.  It  was  likewise  very 
essential,  that  he  should  deeply  impress  their  minds 
with  a  conviction  of  his  apostolic  authority,  and  en- 
force that  conviction  by  pointing  out  the  fruits  of  the 
gospel,  and  the  sufferings  he  underwent  on  account  of 
it;  in  order  that  he, might  not  only  confound  the  pre- 
suming arrogance  of  the  false  teachers,  but  give  addi- 
tional energy  to  the  arguments  with  which  he  was 
about  to  oppose  their  opinions. 

The  attentive  reader  will  now  without  difficulty 


ANALYSIS  OF  COLOSSI ANS.  11 

perceive,  that  the  apostle's  language  is  strongly  em- 
phatic and  excellently  adapted  to  his  Scope.  For  in- 
stance (chap.  ii.  ver  2.,)  he  says,  "  unto  all  riches 
"  of  the  full  assurance  of  understanding:"  because 
there  was  reason  to  fear,  lest  the  new  converts  should 
be  hindered  and  shaken,  by  the  numerous  doubts 
which  their  adversaries  raised.  u  In  whom,"  says 
the  apostle  (ver.  3.,)  u  are  hid  all  the  treasures  of 
"wisdom  and  knowledge;"*  because  those  adversa- 
ries, "  vainly  puffed  up  by  their  fleshly  mind"  (ver. 
18.,)  promised  the  Colossians  greater  degrees  of 
wisdom. 

In  the  Elenchtical  part  (^05  £tey%ov)  of  Confir- 
mation, which  is  included  chap.  ii.  ver.  4.  to  chap.  iii. 
ver.  4,  the  apostle  adopts  the  following  order.  1 . 
He  connects  this  part  with  the  preceding: — "  This  I 
say,"  and  adds  a  general  proposition — "  lest  any  man 
"  should  beguile  you  with  enticing  words"  (ver.  4.) 
2.  He  prevents  an  Objection;  remarking  that,  al- 
though he  was  absent,  he  felt  concerned  for  their 
welfare  (ver.  5.)  and  here  we  may  observe  with  de- 
light Paul's  paternal  affection  for  the  Colossians,  as 
well  as  his  ardent  zeal  for  the  enlargement  of  the 
church  and  the  establishment  of  order.  3.  This  is 
followed  by  the  general  conclusion  of  the  whole  con- 
troversy, which  is  also  practical,  and  placed  first, 
where  it  is  more  easy  to  be  understood  than  if  placed 
last;  because  the  Scope  and  ultimate  end  of  the  wri~ 


iH  APPEMDIl. 

fer  are  thus  obvious  to  the  reader,  at  once;  and  be- 
cause the  arguments  which  follow,  impress  themselves" 
on  the  mind  with  more  energy.  4.  He  lays  down 
the  Opposite  Proposition  which  he  nevertheless  ex- 
presses generally,  because  the  Colossians  would  rea- 
dily know  to  what  he  alluded  (ver.  8.)  It  is,  however, 
evident,  from  collating  the  eighth  with  the  preceding 
and  subsequent  verses,  that  the  Opposite  Proposition 
and  true  state  of  the  controversy  may  be  formed  as 
follows.  The  apostle's  Proposition  was: — "  God  hath 
"  delivered  us  from  the  power  of  darkness,  and  hath 
66  translated  us  into  the  kingdom  of  his  dear  Son;  in 
u  whom  we  have  redemption,  through  his  blood,  even 
tc  the  forgiveness  of  sins"  (chap.  i.  ver.  13,  14.) 
The  Judaizing  teachers  contradicted  this:  saying,  that 
"  it  was  necessary  for  Christians  to  be  circumcised, 
"  and  to  keep  the  law  of  Moses,"  Acts  xv.  ver.  5. 
The  Opposition  becomes  therefore  evident.  Propo- 
sition. "  We  are  kept  simply  through  faith  in  Christ 
u  Jesus,  by  which  (faith,)  we  have  received  the  for- 
"  giveness  of  all  our  sins,  and  eternal  life."  Oppo- 
site Proposition.  "  We  are  not  kept  simply  through 
€t  faith  in  Christ  Jesus,  but  if  we  desire  to  be  saved, 
u  we  must  be  circumcised,  and  keep  the  law  of  Mo- 
"  ses,  and  the  traditions  of  men,  in  meat  and  drink,  in 
"  respect  of  a  holyday,  the  new  moon,  the  sabbath, 
"  and  worshipping  of  angels."  Hence  the  language  of 
the  Judaizing  teachers  was,  a  Touch  not;  taste  not; 
c<  handle  not;"  ver.  2L 


ANALYSIS  OF  CUL0SSIANS. 

Now  in  this  Opposite  Proposition,  the  doctrines  of 
Redemption  and  Christ's  Satisfaction,  of  Justification 
and  Sanctification,  were  greatly  corrupted;  and  there- 
by, consciences  which  had  been  recovered  into  liberty 
by  Jesus,  were  again  subjected  to  human  powers, 
and  to  a  heavy  yoke  of  traditions.  Hence  the  Op- 
posite Proposition  is  followed  by  arguments  refuting 
it. — 1 .  In  Christ  dwelleth  all  the  fulness  of  the  God- 
head bodily  (ver.  9.)  2.  Ye  are  complete  in  Christ. 
3.  Christ  is  the  head  of  all  principalities  and  powers 
(that  tyrannize  over  the  conscience.)  4.  In  Christ 
ye  are  now  circumcised,  and  therefore  dead,  in  put- 
ting off  the  body  of  sin  (ver.  11.)  5.  Buried  with 
him  in  baptism  (ver.  12.)  6.  Risen  also  with  him 
through  faith  (ver.  12.)  7.  Raised  with  him  from 
the  dead,  through  the  forgiveness  of  sins  (ver.  13.) 
8.  Whence  the  hand-writing  is  blotted  out,  taken 
away,  and  nailed  to  his  cross  (ver.  14.)  9.  And  in 
the  cross  of  Christ  (Christ  being  spoiled  and  crucifi- 
ed;) were  those  principalities  and  powers  which  had 
hitherto  imposed  a  heavy  yoke  on  the  conscience, 
spoiled,  made  an  open  show  of,  and  led  in  triumph 
(ver.  15.)  From  these  arguments  the  proper  Con- 
clusion naturally  flows  (ver.  16,)  which  likewise  aptly 
touches  on  the  substance  of  all  the  arguments  (ver. 
17.) 

The  Application  follows,  which  consists  of  a  De- 
portation, a  Reproof,  and  an  Exhortation,     Th*  §r* 
15 


APPENDIX. 

guments  of  the  Dehortation  are  as  follows.  1,  The 
adversaries  beguile  you  of  your  reward.  2.  They 
boast  of  things  which  they  have  not  seen.  3.  They 
are  presumptuously  and  carnally  puffed  up  (ver.  18.) 
4.  They  do  not  hdld  the  Head,  on  which  alone  de- 
pends the  increase  of  the  body  and  members.  The 
Reproof  is  given,  because  they  had  already  inclined 
to  the  erroneous  opinions  of  the  adversaries  (ver.  20, 
2 1 ,)  which  he  administers  in  an  argument  drawn  from 
antecedents  (ver.  20,)  adding  a  new  argument  (ver, 
22.:)  and  guarding  it  (ver.  23.)  The  Exhortation 
(chap.  iii.  ver.  1,  2,)  he  confirms  by  argument  (ver. 
3  and  4;)  and  then  makes  a  delightful  and  happy  tran- 
sition to  the  second  part  of  Confirmation,  namely,  the 
Exhortation.     Vide  page  214. 

The  Exhortation.  This  is  perceptive,  and  con- 
tains an  Exhortation  to  seek  after  holiness  with  all 
diligence.  It  includes  the  following  things.  1.  A 
general  persuasive  to  mortify  the  flesh  (chap.  iii.  ver, 
5.)  2.  A  twofold  argument  drawn  from  the  justice 
of  God  (ver.  6,)  and  from  the  difference  between 
their  present  and  pristine  state  (ver.  7,  8.)  3.  A 
fuller  explanation  of  the  method  by  which  sanctifiea- 
tion  is  to  be  attained — by  putting  off  the  old  man 
(ver.  9;)  and  by  putting  on  the  new  man  (ver.  10.) 
This  he  holds  forth,  in  the  same  verse/  in  opposition 
to  the  Judaizing  teachers,  from  the  final  cause  ("  re« 
"  newed  in  knowledge";)  the  formal  cause  ("  after 


ANALYSIS  OF  COLOSSIANS.  J7S 

**  the  image";)  the  inefficient  cause  ("  of  him  that 
a  created  him";)  and  from  the  universality  of  the 
Subject  (ver.  11.)  He  then  proceeds  to  descant  on 
the  cultivation  of  Christian  graces  (ver.  12,  13,  14;) 
of  heavenly  and  inward  peace  (ver.  15;)  of  the  divine 
word,  with  spiritual  joy  and  gladness  (ver.  16;)  and 
with  thanksgiving  in  word  and  deed  (ver.  17.)  4.  He 
descends  to  the  particular  duties  of  wives  (ver.  18, 
19;)  of  children  (ver.  20;)  of  parents  (ver.  21;)  of 
servants  (ver.  22 — 25;)  and  of  masters  (chap.  iv. 
ver.  1.)  5.  He  finally  commends  to  the  attention  of 
all,  two  very  important  precepts:  namely,  incessant 
Prayer  not  only  for  the  private  success,  but  for  the 
general  spread  of  the  Gospel  (ver.  2 — 4;)  and  Wis- 
dom in  conversation,  especially  to  them  that  are  with- 
out (ver.  5  and  6.) 

However  long  this  Exhortation  seem,  it  evidently 
flows  from  the  preceding  subject.  Precept  answers 
to  doctrine,  as  a  stream  to  its  fountain;  and,  .thus,  the 
Apostle  admirably  points  out  the  proper  source  of 
sanctification,  and  the  method  of  teaching  the  gospel, 
which  is  most  agreeable  to  the  mind  of  the  Holy 
Ghost  Let  these  things  be  duly  observed,  and  it 
will  become  of  little  or  no  consequence,  whether  any 
divisions  be  made  in  the  Confirmation;  since  any  one 
may  refer  all  to  Refutation  and  term  the  rest  the  Ap- 
plication ;  whether  they  be  distributed  into  three  parts 
—doctrinal,  elenchtical,  and  preceptive;  or  whethoi 


|7«  APPENDIX. 

divided  into  two,  as  we  ourselves  have  done,  deeming 
it  more  conformable  to  the  Proposition,  and  the  just 
mode  of  treating  it. 

In  the  Conclusion,  he  speaks  of  the  mutual  com- 
munications of  their  several  states  (ver.  7 — 9 ;)  the 
salutations  of  others  (ver.  10 — 14;)  the  salutations  of 
the  brethren  (ver.  15;)  gives  special  directions  (ver. 
16,  17;)  and  a  remembrance  of  himself,  together  with 
a  prayer  for  their  welfare  (ver.  18.) 

The  Argument  of  the  epistle  may  be  paraphrased 
in  the  following  manner. — "  I  have  thanked,  and  I 
a  continue  to  thank  my  God,  for  your  conversion,  ef- 
H  fected  under  the  ministry  of  Epaphras;  an  account 
a  of  which  he  has  communicated  to  me.  It  is  my  in- 
"  cessant  prayer  that  you,  being  strengthened  of  God, 
u  may  increase  in  knowledge  and  holiness;  and  re- 
<6  membering  the  mighty  mercy,  how  that  He  fully 
u  redeemed  you  through  Christ  the  Lord,  the  Sa- 
cc  viour  of  you  and  of  all;  who,  if  you  abide  in  the 
"  faith,  is  also  your  eternal  joy  in  the  Gospel  (which 
"  is  preached  in  the  world,)  and  committed  to  me, 
u  together  with  fellowship  in  the  sufferings  of  Christ,) 
i:  even  as  he  is  become  to  the  Gentiles,  the  hope  of 
u  glory.  Wherefore  I  labour,  that  all  may  be  fully 
"  formed  in  Christ;  but  especially  that  you,  the  Laodi- 
(i  ceans,and  all  the  churches  that  do  not  personally  know 
u  me,  may  persevere  in  integrity  of  faith  and  practice. 
ci  Though  absent,  I  write  as  if  I  were  really  present. 


ANALYSIS  OF  COLOSSI  AXs.  i  J  ; 

Ci  lest,  influenced  by  vain  persuasions,  you  should  leave 
a  Christ  whom  you  have  received,  and  side  with  Ju- 
a  daizing  Christians;  when  Jesus,  in  his  passion, 
€t  death,  and  resurrection  is  made  to  you  All  in  All, 
H  and  bears  the  same  relation  to  the  law,  as  a  sub- 
u  stance  to  its  shadow.  Let  it  then  be  your  care, 
u  that  you  be  not  beguiled  of  your  reward  by  them 
11  who  know  not  what  they  affirm;  and  who  leave 
u  Christ,  the  Head,  whence  is  derived  every  increase^ 
"  being  vainly  puffed  up  in  their  minds.  Why  do  you, 
"  who  are  dead  to  the  world,  listen  to  worldly  doc- 
u  trines  concerning  things  obnoxious  to  corruption 
ci  and  unworthy  of  the  wisdom  that  dwells  in  the  Sa- 
a  viour?  Influenced  by  the  consideration  that  ye 
■iC  were  quickened  together  with  Christ,  and  are  about 
"  to  enjoy  with  him  immortal  glory,  elevate  your  souls 
11  to  things  above ;  and,  being  invested  with  this  high 
"  dignity,  persist  in  mortifying  the  old  man;  put  on 
a  the  new  man,  with  righteousness,  peace,  and  joy  in 
li  the  Holy  Ghost;  honour  Christ;  do  all  in  his  name 
u  with  thanksgiving;  continuing,  every  one  according 
"  to  his  calling,  in  prayer,  especially  for  me;  and  act- 
"  ing  with  wisdom  your  respective  parts  in  the  world. 
"  Tychicus  and  Onesimus  will  give  you  further  in* 
il  formation  respecting  my  state,  &c.'; 

15* 


NOTES 
THE  TRANSLATOR. 


"  It  is  a  great  happiness  to  have  pointed  out  to  us,  the  best 
u  books  -written  on  any  science,  or  any  special  part  of  it, 
€i  For  want  of  this  advantage,  many  a  man  has  -wasted 
u  his  time  in  reading  over  perhaps  some  whole  volumes, 
m  and  learned,  little  more  by  it,  than  to  know  that  those 
u  volumes  were  not  worth  his  reading.97 

Dr.  Watts. 


"  The  Notes  by  the  Translator  contain  a  valuable  fund  oi 
u  bibliographical  knowledge,  collected  and  digested  from  va- 
a  rious  approved  sources,  on  all  the  topics  discussed  by  Pro» 
*cfessor  France; ;  from  which  the  student  of  the  Sacred 
f<  Writings  may  derive  important  direction  and  assistance." 
Christian  Observer,  December,  1814. 


NOTES 

BY 

THE  TRANSLATOR. 


PART  I. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Grammatical  Reading. 


(a)  1.  Vf  ith  respect  to  a  Version  of  the  Holy  Scriptures, 
none  has  such  claims  on  the  student's  attention  as  the  autho- 
rized English  Translation.  M  Those  who  have  compared  most 
of  the  European  Translations  with  the  Original,  have  not 
scrupled  to  say,  that  the  English  Translation  of  the  Bible, 
made  under  the  direction  of  King  James  the  First,  is  the  most 
accurate  and  faithful  of  the  whole.  Nor,"  adds  Dr.  Adam 
Clarke,  M  is  this  its  only  praise ;  the  Translators  have  seized 
the  very  spirit  and  soul  of  the  Original,  and  expressed  this, 
almost  every  where,  with  pathos  and  energy." 

The  best  Latin  Version  of  the  New  Testament,  according 
to  Dr.  Doddridge,  is  Beza.  "  Erasmus  is  not  equally  accurate 
with  him ;  and  Castalio,"  add3  the  Doctor,  •'  is  often  false,  and 


1*2  NO!  E9    w    i  HE  TRANSLATOR 

in  several  places,  full  of  affectation."  Pagninus  improved  by 
Montanus  is  a  very  liberal  version  ;  and  is  printed  in  Leus- 
den's  Greek  Testament,  12mo.  Berol.  1761  ;  and  in  Monta- 
nus' edition  of  the  Greek  Test,  printed  with  his  Bible  men- 
tioned note.(^) 

2.  A  good  edition  of  the  Greek  Testament,  is,  of  coarse,  a 
main  desideratum  with  the  Biblical  student.  Griesbach's  Tes- 
tament printed  at  Hall6,  or  Wetstein's  2  vol.  fol.  Amst. 
1751-2,  are  the  best  we  have ;  and,  when  the  student  is  com- 
petent to  critical  inquiry,  he  should  certainly  procure  a  copy 
of  one  of  them.  Bengelii  Novum  Testamentum  Grxcum,  is 
much  esteemed,  8vo.  Stutgard  1734 ;  ibid.  17  ^9  ;  ibid.  1753 ; 
Tubing.  1762;  ibid.  1776;  and  Lips,  curante  Buttigio,  1737.— 
Another  excellent  edition,  is  Wetstein's  Novum  Testamen- 
tum post  priores  Steph.  Curcellaei,  &c.  Amst.  1735.  "This 
is  the  second  edition  of  that  in  1711,  and  is  much  more  accu- 
rate, and,  in  almost  every  respect,  more  valuable."  For  an 
account  of  these,  and  other  editions  of  the  Greek  Testament, 
the  reader  is  referred  to  the  Bibliotheca  Sacra  of  Le  Long, 
and  to  the  Bibliographical  Diet,  of  T\r.  A.  Clarke. 

(b)  Instead  of  Pasoris  Lexicon  Nov.  Test.  (Lips.  1774,) 
Parkhurst's  and  Ewing's  Greek  and  English  Lexicons  may  be 
safely  recommended.  The  former,  however,  gives  the  verbs 
only  in  the  first  person  singular  of  the  present  tense ;  and,  on 
that  account,  the  latter  work  may  merit  the  preference  or 
those  who  are  learning  the  language^  because  it  makes  the 
path  more  easy  and  more  certain.  Both  have  prefixed  Greek 
Grammars  to  their  Lexicons,  which  are  esteemed. 

Those  who  understand  the  Latin  language,  and  who  have 
made  a  progress  in  the  study  of  the  Greek,  need  scarcely  be 
referred  to  Schleusner's  Novum  Lexicon  Grseco-Latinum  in 
Novum  Testamentum,  4  vol.  8vo.  Lips.  1801.  "  This  work," 
says  Dr.  Herbert  Marsh,  "  contains  a  treasure  of  knowledge, 
with  which  no  student  in  theology  can  dispense.  The  different 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  l&y 

senses  of  the  words  are  investigated  with  the  utmost  philologi- 
cal precision  ;  they  are  illustrated  by  the  principal  passages  of 
the  Greek  Testament;  and  the  whole  is  arranged  in  the  most 
perspicuous  manner." 

(c)  "Novum  Testamentum  Grsecum,  Amst.  form.  min. 
Blaeu.  1663.  A  beautiful  and  correct  edition;  the  paper  and 
type  remarkably  good,  and  the  press  work  well  executed.  It 
consists  of  460  pages  ;  is  a  little  more  than  four  inches  in 
length,  about  two  and  a  quarter  in  breadth,  and  half  an  inch 
in  thickness.  A  treasure  to  these  who  wish  to  make  the 
Greek  Testament  their  constant  companion.  Reprinted  ibid. 
8vo,  1648. — Nov.  Test,  cum  notis  Scaligeri,  Stephani,  et  Ca- 
sauboni,  Gr.  8vo.  Lond.  1633.  A  good  edition,  very  thin  and 
convenient  for  the  pocket. — The  most  convenient  and  accu- 
rate for  common  use,  is  that  of  Gerhard  of  Maestrich,  Wet- 
stein,  Amst,  1735,  12mo.  with  various  readings,  parallel  texts, 
and  some  useful  maps.  That  by  Bengel,  Stutgard,  1734,  12mo, 
is  a  very  accurate  and  excellent  edition."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"  Elzevir's  editions  in  12mo.  are  in  great  repute,  especially 
that  of  1624.  Smytegelt's  edition,  1675,  is  beautiful,  and  small 
for  the  pocket."     Dr.  E.  Williams. 

It  may  be  proper  to  observe,  that  one  of  these  editions  may 
prove  sufficient  for  persons  who  are  merely  learning  the  Greek 
language,  without  the  editions  mentioned  under  note  (#,) 
which  are  chiefly  valuabln  for  critical  purposes. 

(d)  1.  J.  Leusdeni  Compendium  Grsecum  Nov.  Test.  12mo. 
Lond.  1688. 

2.  Nov.  Test,  in  quo  turn  selecti  versiculi  1900,  qui- 
bus  omnes  N.  Test,  voces  continentur,  asteriscis  notantur ; 
turn  omnes  et  singula  voces,  semel  vel  saepius  occurrentes  pe° 
culiari  nota  distinguuntur ;  auctore  Joan.  Leusden.  l6mo. 
Amst.  Wetstein,  1688;  18mo,  Lond.  Smith,  1698;  16mo, 
Amst.  Wetstein,  1701 ;  16mo.  ibid.  1740;  8vo.  Amst.  Wetst, 
16&8.    Vide  Dr.  Clarke's  Bib.  J)ht 


184  NOTE*  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

(e)  The  best  edition  of  St.  Clement^  Epistles  is  that  by 
Wotton,  Gr.  and  Lat  8vo.  Cantab.  1718. 

The  most  correct  edition  of  the  epistle  ascribed  to  St.  Bar= 
nabas,  is  8vo.  Lond.  1710. 

S.  Ignatii  Epistolce,  juxta  exemplar  Mediceuro,  una  cum 
veteri  Latina  versione  a  Pearson  et  Smith  ;  Gr.  et  Lat.  4to. 
Oxon.  1709.  For  the  best  translations  of  the  epistles  ascribed 
to  Clement,  Barnabas,  and  Ignatius,  see  Abp.  Wake's  Genu- 
ine Epistles. 

S.  Justini  Martyris  opera  ab  Oberthur,  8vo.  Gr.  et  Lat. 
Wirceb.  1777,  2  vol.  "A  very  good,  neat,  and  portable  edi- 
tion." 

Athenagoras.  The  following  is  an  excellent  edition  of  his 
■works:  Legatio— et  de  Resurrectione,  &c.  Gr.  et  Lat.  cura 
Edvardi  Decbair,  8vo.  Lond.  1706.  For  a  translation,  see  the 
Apologetics  of  Athenagoras  by  David  Humphreys,  Svo.  Lond. 
1714. 

S.  Macarii  llomilise,  Gr.  et  Lat.  8vo.  Lips.  2  vol.  1698  am! 
1699.     '•  A  very  neat  edition." 

The  reader  is  referred  to  Dr.  A.  Clarke's  Concise  View  of 
Sacred  Literature,  for  a  complete  account  of  the  Works  at- 
tributed to  the  Fathers.  It  contains  likev  ise  notations  of  the 
first  editions,  the  best  editions,  and  the  best  English  transla- 
tions ;  besides  other  valuable  matter. 

(/)  1.  The  best  edition  of  the  Segjtuagint  fs  that  prepared 
by  the  late  Dr.  Holmes,  which  is  now  publishing.  The  firs" 
Volume  appeared  in  1798,  since  which  period,  several  Parts 
have  been  published  under  the  inspection  of  Mr.  Parsons. 

Breitinger's  edition  of  Grabe's  Septuagint,  4  vol.  4to.  Ti- 
guri.  Helvet-  1730,  ranks  very  high  in  the  republic  of  letters. 
See  Dr.  A.  Clarke's  Bib.  Diet. 

For  learning  the  language  and  for  common  use,  the  follow- 
ing may  be  safely  recommended,  as  substitutes. 

Septuaginta,  12mo.  Cantab.  1665.  "  This  Edition  is  well 
executed,  mid  has  a  learned  preface  by  Bisl 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  18J 

Septuaginta  Milli,  12mo.  2  vol.  Amstel.  1725.  "  A  very  cor* 
rect  edition." 

2.  Eusebii  Historia  Evangelica,  a  Guil.  Reading,  Gr.  et  Lat, 
fol.  Cantab,  1720.  "  Best  edition,— The  best  English  transla- 
tion is  the  second  edition  of  that  published  Lond.  1696,  under 
the  title  of  the  History  of  the  Church  from  our  Lord's  incar» 
nation,  to  the  twelfth  year  of  the  Emperor  Mauricius  Tibe- 
,rius,  or  the  year  of  Christ,  594.  &c.  &c." 

3  Chrysostomi  Opera,  Edit.  Benedictin.  Montfaucon.  IS 
vol.  Gr.  et  Lat.  fol.  Paris,  1718,  1738."    «  The  best  edition." 

4.  S.  Basilii  Opera,  Gr.  et  Lat.  a  Garnier  Monacho  Bene- 
dictino,  3  vol.  fol.  Paris,  1721.    "  Best  edition." 

5.  Michael  Neander  was  a  Protestant  Divine,  and  born  in 
Silesia,  1513.  He  was  a  rector  of  the  university  of  Ilfeldt,  and 
afterwards  of  that  at  Pforzheim.  He  wrote  a  Hebrew  Gram- 
mar ;  Pindarica  Aristologia ;  and  other  works ;  but  of  those 
mentioned  here,  I  have  met  with  no  notice, — See  JWelch, 
Adam  vit.  Germ.  Theol. 

6.  Spicilegium  Sanctorum  Patrum,  ut  et  Hsereticorum  See- 
culi  I.  II.  IU.— a  Jo.  Ernest.  Grabe,  Gr.  et  Lat.  8vo.  Oxon. 
1700,  3  vol.  et  8vo.  Lond.  1714,  3  vol.  For  further  informa- 
tion, see  Dr.  A.  Clarke's  Bib.  Diet.  Miscel.  and  Concise  View, 

(g)  Riveti  Critica  Sacra,  cum  Tractatu  de  Patrum  Aucto- 
ritate,  1690,  8vo. 

itoberti  Coci,  Censura  quorumdam  Scriptorum,  qui  sub 
nomnibus  Patrum  antiquorum  a  Pontificiis  citari  solent,  Lond. 
1523,  4to. 

Pearsonii  Vindiciae  Epistolarum  S.  Ignatii,  4to.  Cantab» 
1672.  Boyle  calls  this  "  an  incomparable  work ;"  and  "  one 
of  the  first  books  in  the  world  for  criticism." 

(/*)  1.  The  best  version  of  the  Bible  is  undoubtedly  our  own 
authorized  translation. 
Biblia  Sacra  Scholiis  illustrate  a  J,  Tremcllio  et  F.  Junior 

16 


Uo  NOTES  Bl   1HL  TKANSLATOlt. 

fol.  Lond.  1581.— "The  version  of  Junias  and  Tremellius,'7 
says  Dr.  A.  Clarke,  "  has  much  of  the  true  natural  simplicity ; 
the  chief  Hebraisms  are  preserved  and  the  whole  exactly  con- 
formable to  the  Hebrew  text,  without  obscurity  or  barbarity." 

Opitii  Atrium  Linguae  Sanctse,  Lips.  1710. 

Biblia  Sacra,  per  Xantem  Pagninura,  Lugd.  1527,  4to.  Arias 
Montanus,  who  employed  himself  in  improving  Pagnini's  ver- 
sion, says,  "  Ejus  interpretatio,  veluti  omnium  tutissima,  He- 
braico  textui  adnecteretur." 

2.  With  respect  to  Hebrew  Bibles,  Van  der  Hooght's  8vo. 
2  vol.  Arast.  1705,  "  for  elegance  and  accuracy  has  no  equal." 
Of  this  work,  Mr*  Frey  has  published  a  new  and  very  correct 
edition. 

u  The  most  elegant  and  correct  of  the  Anti-Masoretic  Bi- 
bles, is  Biblia  Heb.  Forsteri,  4to.  2  vol.  Oxon.  1750.— Mr. 
Boothroyd  has  published  an  edition  of  the  Hebrew  Bible  in 
quarto,  without  points,  but  with  various  readings  and  critical 
notes. 

For  those  who  are  studying  the  language,  the  following  will 
be  more  useful. 

Hutter's  Hebrew  Bible,  Hamburg,  1587,  and  again  in  1607. 
"  This  work  is  so  printed,  as  that  the  student  ascertains  the 
roots  at  once,  for  which  he  is  to  search  his  Lexicon.  A  useful 
part  of  it,  which  Hutter  calls  Cubus  Alphabeticus  sanctae  He- 
braeae  Linguae  is  wanting  in  some  copies;  and  of  this  purcha- 
sers should  be  aware." 

"  But  the  most  useful  Hebrew  Bible,  for  any  learner  who 
is  even  moderately  acquainted  with  the  Latin  is  that  of  Mon- 
tanus, with  an  interlineary  Latin  translation.  The  Latin  word  is 
put  exactly  above  the  Hebrew  word  to  which  it  belongs,  so 
that  the  student  is  sure  to  know  the  right  sense  of  any  word 
in  the  text.  The  best  edition  was  printed  at  Antwerp,  by  C. 
Plantin,  1572,  folio ;  but  there  is  a  second  and  excellent  edi- 
tion, ibid.  1584,  folio.  The  latter  folio  editions,  and  especially 
the  edition  in  8yo.  are  miserably  executed»"    Dr.  A.  Clarke, 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  W 

[i)  The  best  Hebrew  Grammar  on  the  Masoretic  plan,  is 
perhaps  that  by  Mr.  Israel  Lyons,  published  by  Lunn.  Of 
Parkhurst's  Grammar,  prefixed  to  his  Lexicon,  the  Editor  of 
the  British  Critic  has  remarked,  that  "the  experience  of 
thirty  years,  has  evinced  it  to  be,  beyond  comparison,  the  best 
introduction  to  the  Hebrew  Language  which  ever  made  its  ap- 
pearance." The  reader  should  observe,  that  this  is  an  Anti- 
Masoretic  Grammar.  Prey's  Hebrew  Grammar  may  be  re- 
commended to  the  student  as  a  very  useful  one  in  acquiring 
the  language. 

(k)  Opitius'  Atrium  Linguae  Sanctae,  Lips.  1710 ;  Bythner's 
Lyra  Prophetica,  4to  Lond.  1664 ;  and  Leusden's  Clavis  Veteris 
Testamenti,  Ultraj.  4to.  1683 ;  are  become  extremely  scarce. 
Opitius*  Hebrew  Lexicon,  and  Baldovius'  Grammar  are  works, 
of  which,  notices  have  been  sought  in  vain.  There  is  another 
piece  on  a  similar  plan,  Robertson's  Clavis  Pentateuchi,  1  vol. 
8vo.  Edinburgi,  1770,  but  it  must  likewise  be  numbered  among 
scarce  works.  These  volumes,  independently  of  their  rarity, 
are  calculated  for  those  only  who  are  acquainted  with  the 
Latin. 

(I)  Opitius'  Lexicon  is  become  completely  scarce,  and  I  know 
of  no  Hebrew  Lexicon  on  the  same  plan.  When  the  student 
is  advanced^  Parkhurst's  Hebrew  and  English  Lexicon,  Lond. 
4to.  1792,  and  royal  8vo.  1800,  may  be  safely  recommended. 
Stockii  Clavis  Lingua?  sanctse  veteris  Testamenti,  8vo.  Lips, 
1753,  "  is,"  says  Dr.  E.  Williams,  "  a  work  of  uncommon 
merit,  in  consulting  which,  the  serious  biblical  student  is  sel» 
dom  disappointed." 

Buxtorfii  Lexicon  Hebraic,  et  Chald.  Bas.  1735,  8vo.  is 
much  esteemed.  But  Frey's  Hebrew  Dictionary,  in  which 
the  words  are  ranged  alphabetically,  and  not  according  to  th© 
roots  is  beyond  all  comparison  the  best  for  the  Hebrew  stu* 
dent 


188  M  8TEB  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR- 

(m)  Johannis  Leusdeni  Compendium  Biblicum,  8vo.  Ultraj. 
1668. 

(n)  Those,  however,  who  have  not  the  advantage  of  a  Tu- 
tor's assistance  must  not  despond.  "  Nobody,"  says  Mr. 
Locke,  "  knows  what  strength  of  parts  he  himself  has,  until 
he  has  tried  them ;  and  of  the  understanding,  one  may  most 
truly  say,  that  its  force  is  greater  generally  than  it  thinks, 
until  it  is  put  to  it,  '  Vires  acquirit  eundo.'  The  proper 
remedy  here  is,  but  to  set  the  mind  to  work,  and  apply  the 
thoughts  vigorously  to  the  business  ;  for  it  holds  in  the  strug- 
gles of  the  mind,  as  in  those  of  war,  '  dum  putant  se  vin- 
cere,  vic£re  ;"  a  persuasion  that  we  shall  overcome  any  dif- 
ficulties that  we  meet  with  in  the  sciences,  seldom  fails  to 
carry  us  through  them.  Nobody  knows  the  strength  of  his 
own  mind,  and  the  force  of  steady  and  regular  application, 
until  he  has  tried." 

(o)  Biblia  sine  Punctis,  8vo.  Lugd.  Bat.  Men.  ben.  Israel, 
about  1680.  As  a  portable  Bible,  the  following  is  recom- 
mended.— Biblia  Hebraica  sine  Punctis ;  versibus,  capitibus,  et 
sectionibus  interstincta,  notisque  Masoretarum  quas  Kri  et 
Ktif  appellant  instructa,  ad  Leusdenianam  Editionem  adorna- 
ta.  Amstel.  1701,  18 mo.  "  This  is  a  very  small  pocket  size, 
and  a  beautiful  little  book.  The  Wetsteins  of  Amsterdam 
printed  Leusden's  Greek  Testament  on  paper  of  exactly  the 
same  size,  to-  bind  up  with  the  Bible.  The  best  edition  of  the 
Testament  for  this  purpose,  appears  to  be  that  of  1740,  Amst. 
by  Wetstein  and  Smith.,,    Dr.  A.  Clarke, 

(p)  The  ancient  Jews  divided  the  Bible  into  three  parts  ; 
the  Law,  the  Prophets,  and  the  Hagiographa ;  for  a  detailed 
account  of  which  the  reader  is  referred  to  Buck's  Theological 
Dictionary,  vol.  1,  p.  76 ;  or  the  Encyclopaedia  Perthensis,  vol, 
3,  p.  614.    It  is  sufficient  to  notice  here,  that  the  Hasriogranbc 


IN OTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR,  1*9 

comprehends  the  Psalms ;  Proverbs ;  Ecclesiastes  ;  Canticles  ; 
Job;  Rath;  the  Lamentations;  Esther;  Daniel;  Ezra  (inclu- 
ding Nehemiah ; )  and  the  Chronicles.  Of  these,  a  part  of* 
Daniel  and  Ezra  is  in  the  Chaldee  dialect. 

(q)  John  Conrad  Danhawer,  a  German  Divine  of  the  Lu- 
theran Church,  born  at  Brisgaw,  in  1603.  He  was  Professor 
of  Eloquence  at  Strasburgh,  where  he  died  in  1666.  (Morcri.) 
His  works  I  have  never  seen. 

(r)  1.  Black  wall's  Sacred  Classics,  Q  vols.  8vo.  London, 
1727 — 1737,  &c.  "is  a  work  that  gives  many  well  chosen  in- 
stances of  passages  in  the  classics  which  may  justify  many  of 
those  in  Scripture  that  have  been  accounted  solecisms." — Dr. 
Doddridge.  It  was  indeed  written,  to  prove  that  the  Greek 
of  the  New  Testament  was  classically  just ;  but  it  is  generally 
allowed  that  the  learned  author  failed  in  his  main  object;  nor 
did  the  cause  of  truth  require  that  he  should  succeed.  It  is, 
however,  a  most  valuable  production.  The  Latin  scholar  is 
referred  to  the  following  translation  of  it,  which,  says  Dr  A. 
Clarke,  "is  much  more  valaable  than  the  English  Original, 
being  enriched  with  many  critical  observations,  by  the  learned 
editor." — Blackwalli  Sacri  Classici  a  Wollio,  4to.  Lips.  1736. 

2.  Pfeifferi  Opera  Omnia,  1  vol.  Ultraj.  1704. 

(.?)  Glassi  Salomonis  Philologia  Sacra,  4to.  Lips  1725  ;  and 
2  vols.  8vo.  Lips.  1776.  Dr.  E.  Williams  notices  editions  4to. 
1743,  1776,  a  Dathio.  This  "  immortal  Work,"  as  Mosheim 
atyles  it,  requires  no  testimony  in  its  favour. 

(t)  1.  Clavis  Scripturce  Select®,  seu  de  Sermone  sacrarum 
Literarum ;  auctore  Matt.  Flacco  (often  written  Flaxio)  Illy- 
rico.    Basil.  Oporinus,  1367,  fol. 

Cu)  Bnxtorfii  Thesaurus  Grammatics,  Bt*s"u\  1609* 


lyi)  NOTES  BY  T  HE  TRANSLATOR. 

(v)  1.  Antonius  Schorus,  de  Ratione  discendse  docendacque 
Lingua  Gracse  et  Latin»,  Argent.  1549,  8vo.  et  Argent. 
1571,  8vo. 

2.  Antonii  Schori  Pleases  Lingu»  Latin»  e  Cicerone  col- 
lect* Basil.  1550,  8vo. 

(w)  The  commentaries  of  Drusius,  Grotius,  &c  are  in  the 
Critici  Sacri,  Lond.  fol.  1660. 

(x)  Philippi  Herwarti  Compendium,  &c.  of  which  an  edi- 
tion was  edited  about  the  year  1670,  by  Frischmuth,  a  learned 
German. 

(y)  1.  The  Chaldee  parts  of  Holy  Writ  are,  of  course» 
printed  in  all  editions  of  the  Hebrew  Bible  ;  and  the  transla- 
tion, in  our  own  authorized  version.  The  Chaldee  much  re- 
sembles the  Hebrew. 

2.  "  The  Targum"  is  the  designation  given  to  the  Chaldee 
paraphrases  of  the  books  of  the  Old  Testament,  of  which  there 
are  no  less  than  nine.  Seven  of  them  are  written  in  the  cor- 
rupt Jerusalem  dialect  of  the  Chaldee  language ;  but  the  Chal- 
dee of  Onkelos  and  Jonathan  is  classical  and  pure."  The  two 
latter,  have  been  printed  by  Jo.  Buxtorf,  in  his  great  Hebrew 
Bible,  4  torn.  fol.  Basilia,  1620;  and  all  of  them,  except  the 
Targum  of  Rabbi  Joseph  the  Blind,  on  the  two  books  of  Chro- 
nicles (the  M.  S."  of  which  was  not  then  discovered,)  are 
printed  in  the  London  Polyglott.  See  also  the  second  Edition 
of  the  Great  Bible,  Venice,  4  torn.  fol.  Bomberg.  1548. 

(z)  *£))*  V?3D  (Michlal  Iophi,)  Perfectio  Pulchritudinis, 
seu  Commentarius  in  loca  selecta  vocesque  et  res  difficiliores 
Sacrse  Scripturse  a  R.  Selemone  Ben  Meleeh;  cum  TMDW  BpS 
Spicilegio,  seu  rerum  praeteritarum  et  intermissarum ;  Authore. 
R.  Jacob.  Abendana.  Amst.  4to.  Anno  a  Mundi  condito  5421 
This  edition  is  in  the  Library  of  the  London  Society-. 


.NOiES  BV  THE  TKANSI.ATOK.  lyi 

Biblia  sacra  Hebraica  et  Chaldaica,  cum  Masora,  Sec.  edente 
Jo.  Buxtorfio,  Basilise,  1620,  4  torn.  fol.  This  is  Buxtorf's 
Bible,  mentioned  in  the  last  note. 

For  a  complete  account  of  the  writings  of  the  Rabbins,  the 
reader  is  referred  to  Bartolocci  Julii  Bibliotheca  magna  Rab- 
binica,  de  Scriptoribus  et  Scriptis  Hebraicis,  Romse,  1675,  4 
vol.  fol.  and  to  Imbonati  Bibliotheca  Latino -Hebraica,  &c.  Ro- 
mas, 1694,  fol. 


192  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR, 


CHAPTER  II. 

Historical  Reading. 


(a)  Our  author's  term  historicus  (historical,)  is  not,  per- 
haps,  very  happily  applied,  and  yet  it  does  not  seem  easy  to 
substitute  a  better.  The  reader  will  see,  in  the  course  of  the 
chapter,  that  it  is  here  taken  in  a  wider  sense  than  it  usually 
conveys. 

(&)  "  The  Sum  and  Substance  of  the  Scriptures"  is  a  de- 
signation frequently  applied  to  some  main  doctrine  of  the  Bi- 
ble i  and  thus  Christ  sometimes  receives  this  character.  In 
the  instance  before  the  Reader,  it  means  a  brief,  but  complete 
summary  of  the  subjects,  &c.  recorded  in  the  Scriptures. 
Such  a  synopsis  is  given  by  almost  all  commentators,  as  well 
as  by  Luther. 

Lutheri  Opera  omnia,  7  vol.  fol.  Witteburg.  1554,  et  ani>. 

(c)  Heideggeri  Enchiridion  Biblicum,  Lips.  1703.  Tig.  1681, 
and  Amst.  1688. 

(d)  Wolffgangi  Franzii  Tractatus  de  Interpretatione  Scrip- 
ture» Sacras,  1634,  4to.     Vide  page  294. 

The  division  of  the  sacred  text  into  chapters  and  verses  is 
of  modern  date.  Hugo  de  Sancto  Caro,  who  flourished  in  the 
thirteenth  century,  projected  the  first  Concordance  to  the 
Scriptures,  and  found  it  necessary  to  ditide  the  booics  into 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR:  193 

sections,  and  the  sections  into  subdivisions,  in  order  to  find  out 
with  the  more  ease  any  word  or  passage  of  Scripture.  These 
sections  are  the  same  as  our  chapters,  but  the  subdivisions  do 
not  correspond  with  our  verses.  This  was  the  invention  of 
Rabbi  Mordecai  Nathan,  about  1445,  who,  in  imitation  of  Hu- 
go, drew  up  a  concordance  to  the  Hebrew  Bible  for  the  use 
of  the  Jews.  See  the  Ency.  Perth.  Art.  Bible. — "Black- 
wall's  Sacred  Classics,"  says  Dr.  Doddridge,  "  contains  good 
observations  on  the  divisions  of  chapters  and  verses,  by  which 
the  sense  is  often  obscured." 

(e)  Chemnitii  Loci  Theologici,  Francof.  et  Wirtemb. 
1690. 

(/)  1.  The  student  may  find  it  useful  to  consult  Locke's 
Common-Place  Book  to  the  Bible  by  Dodd,  4to.  Lond.  and 
Talbot's  Complete  Analysis  and  New  Arrangement  of  the 
Bible,  4to.  Leeds,  "  including  the  whole  Scripture  verbatim, 
scientifically  arranged."  Warden's  System  of  Revealed  Re- 
ligion, 4to.  Lond.  1769,  has  its  subjects  "  digested  under  pro- 
per heads,  and  is  compiled  in  the  express  words  of  Scrip- 
ture." 

2.  Tossani  Concordantia  Bib.  Lat.  Junii  et  Tremellu,  et 
Theod.  Bez«,  fol.  1639- 

(g )  The  Works  enumerated  in  this  and  the  following  Note, 
on  the  subject  of  External  Circumstances,  are  in  high  re. 
pute  ;  and  as  they  are  within  the  compass  of  English  Readers, 
and  are  equally  as  valuable  as  those  scarce  pieces  which  the 
Professor  has  introduced,  no  apology  can  be  requisite  for  no- 
ticing them  here. 

Waltheri  Officina  Biblica,  4to.  1668- 

Kortholtus  (Christianus)  de  variis  Scriptur»  Sacrae  Edition  • 
ibus,  Kilon.  1684,  4to. 

Father  Richard   Simon's  Critical  History  of  the  Old  and 


104  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

New  Testaments,  2  vols.  8vo.  "  is  a  work  of  long  established 
reputation.  It  was  first  published  in  French,  in  1768"  Dr. 
E.  William's  Christian  Preacher,  p.  416. 

Jo.  Hen.  Maii  Examen  Historise  Critic»  Novi  Testamenti, 
Rich.  Simon.  Franco!'.  1690  ;  and  Gies.  Has.  1694. 

Dr.  Walton's  Prolegomena  treat  on  philological,  chronologi- 
cal,  geographical,  and  other  points,  in  a  very  full  and  learned 
manner.  See  the  Biblia  Sacra  Polyglotta,  6  vol.  fol.  Lond, 
1657. 

"Campbell's  Preliminary  Dissertations  to  his  new  transla- 
tions of  the  Gospels,  possess  various  excellencies,  and  rectify 
some  considerable  mistakes  in  Father  Simon's  Critical  History, 
4  vols.  8vo.  or  (an  inferior  edition,)  2  vols,  large  8vo.  1807." 
Vide  Dr.  E.  Williams'  Christian  Preacher,  p.  416 ;  Forbes5 
Life  of  Beattie,  vol.  2,  p.  112 ;  Crit.  Rev.  vol.  67,  p.  179,  and 
vol.  68  p.  276. 

Dr.  Gerard's  Institutes  of  Biblical  Criticism,  8vo.  1808.— 
For  a  high  character  of  this  work  which  lays  down  the  Laws 
of  Sacred  Criticism,  see  the  Annual  Review,  vol.  7,  p.  SOS, 
and  the  British  Critic,  vol.  32,  p.  340. 

Professor  Michaelis'  Introduction  to  the  New  Testament^ 
translated  and  considerably  augmented  with  Notes,  and  a 
Dissertation  on  the  origin  and  composition  of  the  first  three 
Gospels  by  Dr.  Herbert  Marsh,  6  vols,  large  8vo.-^'  Mi- 
chaelis treats  of  the  genuine  antiquity,  the  language,  readings, 
M.  S.  S.  and  principal  editions  of  the  New  Testament ;  also, 
of  the  marks  of  distinction,  aspirations,  and  accents,  the  ancient 
versions,  and  the  divine  inspiration  of  the  books."  Dr.  E.  Wil- 
liams' Christian  Preacher,  p  416 ;  Monthly  Rev.  vol.  17,  p.  296, 
and  vol.  18,  p.  86  ;  Brit.  Crit.  vol.  4.  p.  54,  and  vol.  20,  p.  667. 

Beausobre  and  L'Enfant's  Introduction  to  the  reading  of  the 
Holy  Scriptures,  intended  chiefly  for  young  students  in  divinity3 
4to.  Lond.  1784.  Bishop  Watson  republished  this  piece  in  his 
collection  of  Theological  Tracts,  6  vols.  8vo.  Cantab.  1785  j 
and  observes  respecting  it,  that  it  fe  '•  a  work  of  sreat  merit  j 


BOTE'S  TO  THK  TRANSLATOR,  lite 

the  authors  have  not  left  any  topic  untouched,  on  which  the 
young  student  in  divinity  may  be  supposed  to  want  information.* 

(/i)  Bocharti  Opera  omnia,  curis  Joannis  Leusden.  et  Petri 
Villemandy,  Lugd.  Bat.  1712,  3  vols.  fol.  "  This,"  says  D.r. 
A.  Clarke,  u  is  the  best  collection  of  his  works."  Besides  the 
Hierozoicon  mentioned  by  our  aathor,  "he  wrote  a  very 
learned  and  accurate  work  on  the  geography  of  the  Sacred 
Writings,  entitled  Phaleg  and  Canaan.  Both  these  pieces,  as 
well  as  several  valuable  dissertations  in  his  works,  throw 
much  light  on  many  obscure  places  in  the  Sacred  Writings." 
"Dr.  I.  James  Scheuchzer,  is  author  of  a  very  elaborate 
work,  entitled  Physica  Sacra,  which  has  been  printed  in  Latin, 
German,  and  French,  and  forms  a  regular  comment  on  all  the 
books  of  the  Bible,  where  any  subject  of  natural  history  occurs. 
The  learned  author  has  availed  himself  of  all  the  researches 
of  his  predecessors  on  the  same  subject,  and  has  illustrated  his 
works  with  750  engravings  of  the  different  subjects  in  the  ani- 
mal, vegetable,  and  mineral  kingdoms,  to  which  there  is  any 
reference  in  the  Scriptures.  The  German  edition  was  pub- 
lished in  1731,  in  15  vols,  folio  ;  the  Latin  edition  in  1731  ;  and 
the  French  in  1732,  8  vols,  folio,  often  bound  in  4.  The  work 
is  as  rare,  as  it  is  useful  and  elegant."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Wolffgangi  Franzii  Animalium  Historia  Sacra,  Amstel. 
1643,  12nio.  and  4  torn.  Franc. 

Calmet's  Dictionary  of  the  Holy  Bible,  explaining  the  names, 
histories,  &c.  of  persons,  places,  and  natural  productions, 
mentioned  in  Scripture ;  the  antiquities,  buildings,  coins, 
habits,  laws,  customs,  and  peculiarities  of  the  Jews  and  other 
Eastern  nations  ;  with  chronological  tables,  calenders,  &c.  &c 
To  which  are  added,  entirely  new  illustrations  of  Scripture 
incidents  and  expressions,  selected  from  the  accounts  of  the 
most  authentic  historians,  travellers,  &c.  Illustrated  by  nu- 
merous Plates  of  views,  plans,  habits,  &c. — Also,  the  Supple- 
ment to  Calmet's  Dictionary  of  the  Holy  Bible,  containiri£ 


190  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

words  omitted  in  the  Dictionary,  and  further  remarks,  &c.  in 
continuation  of  the  fragments,  4to.  See  Dr.  E.  Williams' 
Christian  Preacher,  2d  edit.  p.  423,  Mon.  Rev.  1797,  p.  392 ; 
Crit.  Rev.  1788.  p.  462. 

Scripture  Illustrated,  by  Engravings  referring  to  Natural 
Science,  Customs,  Manners?&c.  By  the  Editors  of  Calmet'3 
Dictionary,  4to.  See  the  Monthly  Rev.  May,  1803;  and 
Evangelical  Mag.  vol.  11.  p.  347 — 9. 

A  Companion  to  the  Holy  Bible  ;  the  subject,  Sacred  Geo» 
graphy  :  being  a  geographical  and  historical  account  of  places 
mentioned  in  the  Holy  Scriptures;  originally  composed  by 
Edward  Wells,  D.  D.  Now  revised,  and  corrected,  and  aug- 
mented by  a  series  of  geographical  excursions,  in  which  the 
geography  of  Scripture  is  confirmed  by  evidence  entirely  new 
jn  its  application,  &c.  By  the  Editor  of  Calmet's  Dictionary  ; 
with  (forty  four)  maps  and|plates*< — Lit.  Panorama,  vol.  5,  p.  858, 
~-The  original  work  is  in  the  Bishop  of  Chester's  List  of 
Books. 

Brown's  (of  Haddington)  Dictionary  of  the  Bible ;  contain- 
ing an  historical  account  of  the  persons;  a  geographical  and 
historical  account  of  the  places ;  a  literal,  critical,  and  syste- 
matical description  of  other  objects,  whether  natural,  artifi- 
cial, civil,  religious,  or  military  ;  and  the  explication  of  the 
appellative  terms  mentioned  in  the  writings  of  the  Old  and 
New  Testaments.  5th  Edition,  2  vols.  8vo. — I*or  a  high  cha- 
racter of  this  work,  see  the  Gospel  Mag.  1778,  p.  424  ;  and  the 
Evan.  Mag.  Nov.  1799. 

Prittii  Introductio  ad  lectionem  Novi  Testament!,  in  qua 
quserem  criticam  historiam,  chronologiam,  et  geographiam  per- 
tinent breviter  et  perspicue  exponuntur,  8vo.  Lipsise  1704,  and 
a  fourth  edition  in  1737.  "  I  have  never,"  says  Bishop  Wat 
son,/'  met  with  any  book  superior  to  this,  as  an  introduction 
to  the  New  Testament." 

Harraer's  Observations  on  various  parts  of  Scripture,  revised, 
corrected;  aad  enlarged  frora  modern  writers^  witl 


NOTES  by  THE  TRANSLATOR.  197 

Clarke,  L.  L.  D,  and  F.  A.  S.  4  vols.  large  Svo.  1808.  This 
work,  "  casts  much  light  on  many  difficult  Texts,  that  relate  to 
the  customs  and  manners,  civil,  and  religious,  of  the  Asiatic 
nations,  by  quotations  from  the  works  of  ancient  and  modern 
travellers  into  different  parts  of  the  East,  who  have  described 
those  customs,  &c.  as  still  subsisting."  See  Dr.  Williams3 
Christian  Preacher,  p.  418,  and  Eclec.  Rev.  vol.  5,  p.  1115. 

S.  Burder's  Oriential  Customs ;  or,  an  Illustration  of  the 
Sacred  Scriptures,  by  an  explanatory  application  of  the  cus- 
toms and  manners  of  the  Eastern  nations,  2  vols.  Svo.  This 
work  is  on  the  plan  of  the  preceding,  and  contains  much  new 
matter.  See  the  Monthly  Rev.  June,  1802 ;  Brit.  Crit.  Feb. 
1804,  and  July  1807;  Evan.  Mag.  March,  1802,  and  March9 
1807. 

"  Fleury's  Manners,  Customs,  Laws,  Polity,  and  Religion 
of  the  Israelites,"  observes  Dr.  E.  Williams,  "  is  a  pleasing 
and  instructive  little  volume.  Bishop  Home  says  of  it,  "It  is 
an  excellent  introduction  to  the  reading  of  the  Old  Testament, 
and  should  be  put  into  the  hands  of  every  young  person."  An 
improved  edition  of  it  has  been  published  by  Dr.  Adam 
Clarke,  1802." 

Dr.  Jennings'  Jewish  Antiquities ;  a  course  of  Lectures  on 
Godwin's  Moses  and  Aaron,  2  vols.  8vo.  This  work  is  in  the 
Bishop  of  Chester's,  and  in  Dr.  E.  Williams'  Lists»  See  also' 
the  Monthly  Rev.  vol.  35,  p.  124. 

Godwin's  Moses  and  Aaron,  &c.  4to.  1C85,  &c.  See  Chris- 
tian Preacher,  p.  4SI. 

Buxtorni  (Patri9)  Synagoga  Judaica,  Basil,  12mo.  1661,  and 
3vo.  1712.  "  It  treats  of  the  sects,  rites,  &c.  of  the  Jews,  in 
fifty  chanters." 

Bryant's  Observations  upon  the  plagues  inflicted  upon  the 
Egyptians,  &c.  8vo.  1810.    See  Brit.  Crit-  vol.  4,  p.  35. 

Leusden's  Philologus  Hebrseus,  Philologus  Hebrseo-Grsecus 
generalis,  et  Philologus  Hebrajo-mixtus,  una  cum  Spicilegio 
Pbilolo^ico,  4to,  Basil  17.59,    "  This,"  says  Dr.  E,  Williams, 


m  NOTES  h\  THE  TRANSLATOR 

u  is  a  work  full  of  curious  and  useful  information  on  biblical 
subjects." 

•'  Lowman's  Rationale  of  the  Hebrew  Ritual,  8vo.  Lond.  is 
much  esteemed*"    Christian  Preacher,  p.  416. 

Spencer  de  Legibus  Hebraeorum  Ritualibus,  &c.  2  vol.  foL 
Cantab.  1727. 

Wilson's  Archaeological  Dictionary;  or  classical  Antiquities 
of  the  Jews,  Greeks,  and  Romans. 

Lewis'  Origines  Hebncse,  4  vol.  8vo. 

lladriani  Relandi  Autiquitates  Sacra;  Yeterum  llebneomin 
breviter  delineate,  l2mo.  Traj.  Bat.  1712  and  1717. 

Gulielmi  Outrami  de  Sacrificiis  libri  duo,  4to.  Lond.  1667. 
<c  A  work,  observes  Dr.  A.  Clarke,  **  of  considerable  worth." 

Maurice's  Dissertation  on  the  Oriental  Trinities  (from  the 
4th  and  5th  vols,  of  his  Indian  Antiquities  ;)  with  all  the  plates 
illustrative  of  the  subject,  Svo.  1800.  Brit.  Crit.  vol.  17,  p. 
60S. 

Bingham's  Antiquities  of  the  Christian  Church  ;  2  vol.fol. 
Lond»  1726. — The  last  ten  works  are  in  Dr.  E.  Williams'  List. 

Dr.  Hale's  New  Analysis  of  Chronology,  2  vol  4to.  1809-10» 
Dr.  A.  Clarke  calls  this  "An  elaborate  and  useful  work." 

Archbishop  Usher's  Annals  of  the  Old  and  Xew  Testament, 
with  the  Synchronisms  of  heathen  story  to  the  destruction  of 
Jerusalem,  fol.  Lond.  1658. 

Blair's  Chronology  and  History  o£  the  World,  from  the 
creation  to  the  j  ear  of  Christ,  1768,  illustrated  in  sixty -six 
Tables  «  of  which  four  are  introductory,  and,  include  the 
centuries  prior  to  the  first  Olympiad  ;  and  each  of  the  remain- 
ing fifty -two  contains,  in  one  expanded  view,  half  a  century  ; 
with  excellent  maps.  Lond.  1768. 

Playfair's  System  of  Chronology ;  containing  an  explana- 
tion of  the  principles  of  the  science ;  chronological  history, 
lists,  tables,  and  charts ;  biographical  index,  &c.  fol.  Edinb, 
I7S4— "  Both  these  works  are  admirable,"  says  Dr.  E.  Wi\ 


nSS  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  1$ 

liiams  ;  "  and  may  well  supersede  Bedford,  Tallents,  ScaUger, 
Strauohins,  &c. 

Dr.  Robert  Gray's  Key  to  the  Old  Testament,  and  the 
Apocrypha  :  or  an  Account  of  their  several  books  ;  their  con- 
tents and  authors ;  and  of  the  times  in  which  they  were  res- 
pectively written,  8vo.  1790.  This  work  is  in  the  Bishop  of 
Chester's  List3  p.  9,  and  in  Dr.  E.  Williams'  Appendix  to  the 
Christian  Preacher,  p.  415.  See  also  Dr.  Herbert  Marsh's 
Divinity  Lectures,  p.  49. 

Bishop  Percy's  Key  to  the  New  Testament,  giving  an  ac- 
count of  the  several  books,  their  contents,  their  authors,  and 
of  the  times,  places,  and  occasions  on  which  they  were  writ- 
ten, 12mo. — "From  Michaelis'  Introduction,  Lardner's  His- 
tory, and  Dr.  Owen's  Observations,  Dr.  Percy  compiled  that 
very  useful  manual  called,  A  Key  to  the  New  Testament, 
which  has  gone  through  many  editions,  and  is  very  properly 
purchased  by  most  candidates  for  holy  orders.  Dr.  Marsh's 
Lectures,  p.  48. 

Collyer's  Sacred  Interpreter,  or  a  practical  introduction  to 
a  beneficial  reading  and  a  thorough  understanding  of  the  Holy 
Bible.  "It  treats,"  says  Dr.  E.  Williams,  «of  the  chief  his- 
torical events  of  the  four  great  monarchies  of  the  Jewish 
Church,  to  the  taking  of  Jerusalem  :  and  the  Design  of  each 
book  of  the  Pentateuch,  prophets,  Gospels,  &c."  Dr.  Her- 
bert Marsh  styles  it  u  a  good  popular  preparation  for  the 
study  of  the  Holy  Scriptures."    See  Theol.  Lectures,  p.  4$. 

Father  Lamy's  Apparatus  Biblicus  ;  or  an  Introduction  to 
the  Holy  Scriptures,  with  Notes  and  Additions.  Illustrated 
with  Plates,  2  vol.  8vo.  Lond.  1728.  "  This  has  often  been 
republished  In  Latin,  French,  and  English ;  and  is  a  work  ol" 
^reat  merit."    Dr.  A.  Clarke, 

Jones'  (Jeremiah)  new  and  full  method  of  settling  the  ca- 
nonical authority  of  the  New  Testament,  3  vol.  8vo.  Lond. 
%7$6.    This  work  "  stands  in  high  repute."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

To^<?'  Le^ttTres  on  the  figurative  Language  of  th'e  Httfy 


200  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

Scriptures.  To  which  are  added,  Lectures  on  the  old  and 
New  Testaments,  &c«  8vo.  1808,  "  These  Lectures  constitute 
in  our  opinion,  one  of  the  most  ingenious  and  valuable  works 
of  their  author.  They  are  at  once  calculated  to  illustrate  and 
enforce  scriptural  truths,  to  throw  new  light  upon  some  doubt- 
ful passages,  to  enlarge  the  understanding,  to  affect  the  heart, 
and  conscience,  and  stimulate  to  upright  and  holy-  conduct." 
Eclectic  Rev.  Aug.  1809. 

Erown's  (of  Haddington)  brief  view  of  the  figures,  and  ex- 
plication of  the  metaphors,  contained  in  Scripture,  12ma, 
1803. 

Paley's  Horse  Paulime ;  or  the  Truth  of  the  Scripture  His- 
tory of  St.  Paul,  evinced  by  a  comparison  of  the  Epistles 
which  bear  his  name,  with  the  Acts  of  the  Apostles,  and  with 
one  another.  5th  Ed.  8vo.  "If  the  Epistles  attributed  to  St. 
Paul,  and  the  l^story  of  this  Apostle,  supposed  to  be  written 
by  St.  Luke,  were  forgeries,  it  might  be  expected  that,  in  some 
instances,  they  would  contradict  each  other.  The  coinci- 
dence, on  the  other  hand,  might  be  glaring,  and  ostentatiously 
brought  forward  ;  or  the  epistles  might  consist  of  general  doc- 
trines, without  alluding  to  any  particular  transactions  of  the 
history,  styled  in  our  translation,  the  acts  of  the  Apostles, 
Either  peculiarity  might  subject  them  to  suspicion — On  the 
contrary,  though  there  are  not  many  personal  or  secular  re- 
marks in  these  epistles,  they  sometimes  occur,  apparently 
without  design ;  and  these,  when  traced  in  other  epistles,  or 
the  history  of  St.  Paul;  are  consistent,  and  support  each  other. 

The  obscure  and  unexpected  coincidences  it  is  Dr.  P's.  ob- 
ject to  point  out."  Crit.  Rev.  vol.  70,  p.  595.— This  piece  may 
be  useful  to  those  who  study  St.  Paul's  epistles  ;  vide  p.  205 
of  this  work. 

Dr.  Lardner's  works,  11  vol.  8vo.  Lond.  1788.  The  first 
six  volumes  contain  the  Credibility  ;  and  the  seventh,  eighth, 
and  ninth,  the  Jewish  and  Heathen  Testimonies,  and  the  His 


.VOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR,  *0,l 

\ory  of  Heretics.  The  reader  is  referred  to  Dr.  A.  Clarke's 
List  of  Critical  works  on  the  New  Testament,  for  a  high  cha* 
racter  of  these  volumes. 

Bp.  Lowth's  Lectures  on  the  Sacred  poetry  of  the  He- 
brews, 2  vol.  8vo.  1787,  translated  from  the  Latin  by  Dr. 
George  Gregory,  and  enriched  with  the  principal  notes  of 
Professor  Michaelis  and  others.  "In  this  admired  work," 
Says  Bishop  Porteus,  "  Dr.  Lowth  has  described  and  illustra- 
ted the  properties  and  excellencies  of  each  particular  species  of 
that  poetry  with  such  admirable  taste  and  skill,  with  such  exu- 
berant richness  of  imagery,  such  variety,  copiousness,  elegance, 
and  rotundity  of  style,  as  few  writers  have  yet  equalled  in  a 
language  not  their  own." — The  title  of  the  original  work, 
which  every  Latin  scholar  must  prefer,  is  De  Sacra  PoesiHe- 
braeorum.  a  Rob.  Lowth.  Oxon.  1775,  2  vols.  8vo.  See  also  Dr. 
&.  Williams'  and  Bishop  Watson's  Lists,  and  Dr.  A.  Clarke's 
Bib.  Diet. 

Shuckford's  Connexion  of  Sacred  and  Profane  History, 
from  the  creation  of  the  world  to  the  dissolution  of  the  Assy- 
rian empire,  4  vol.  8vo.  Lond.  edited  by  Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Prideaux's  Connexion  of  the  Old  and  New  Testament,  in 
the  history  of  the  Jews  and  neighbouring  nations,  from  the  de- 
clension of  the  kingdom  of  Israel  and  Judah,  to  the  time  of 
Christ,  4  vol,  8vo.  Lond.  1749,  &c 

Josepki  opera  Gr.  et  Lat.  excus.  ad  Edit.  Lugd.  Bat.  Sieg, 
Havercampii,  cum  Oxon.  Hudsonii  Collatura  curu  Oberthur* 
3  vol.  Svo.  maj.  Lips.  1782-85.  "  A  valuable  edition  by  a  very 
learned  man.  The  best  and  most  accurate  Translation  is  by 
Whiston,  fol.  Lond.  1737.  On  the  later  ones  in  general,  no 
dependence  can  be  placed."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Glassii  Philologia  Sacra,  qua  totius  sacro-sanctcs  Vet.  et 
Nov.  Test.  Scripture,  turn  stylus  et  literatura,  turn  sensus  et 
genuinse  interpretationis  ratio  expenditur.  See  note  (s)  m  the 
preceding  chapter. 

ir* 


38    wp    tfuTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

Blackwall's  Sacred  classics,  &c.    See  note  (r)  ibid. 
"Elsneri  Observationes  Sacrein  Novi  Foederis  libros,  2  vol. 
Svo.  Trajecti  ad  Rhenum,  1720,  and 

"  Alberti  Observationes  Philologicae  in  Sacros  Novi  Foederis 
libros,  Svo.  Ludg.  Bat.  1725,  stand  high  as  critical  books." 
Dr.  E.  Williams. 
Nic.  de  Mortier  Etymologise  Sacre,  fol.  Rom.  1705. 
J.  Alb.  Bengelii,  Ordo  temporum  a  principiis  per  periodcs 
osconomiee   divine,  &c.  8vo.  Stutgard.  1770. 

J.  Alb.  Bengelii  Apparatus  Criticus  Novi  Testament!,  a 
Burch,  Tubing.  Cotta,  1763. — "  Whatever  Bengel  has  done  on 
the  Scriptures,"  says  Dr.  A.  Clarke,  "is  of  great  importance 
to  saored  criticism.  Such  solid  judgment,  profound  learning, 
and  deep  piety,  rarely  ever  meet  in  the  same  person," 
Griesbaehii  Cure  in  historiam  Textus,  Sec.  4to.  Jens,  1777. 
-—— — — -  Synopsis  Evangeliorum,  8vo.  liaise  1776. 

__ Symbol ce  Criticre,  Pars  1.  8vo.  Halse  1785 ;  Pars 

II.  Halas,  1793. — "  All  the  works  of  this  critic  are  highly  and 
deservedly  esteemed."    Dr.  A.  Clarke's  Bib.  Diet. 
Matth.  Martini  Cadmus  Greco-Phoenix,  8vo.  16S1. 
Eilhardi  Lubini  Clavis  Nov.  Test.  4to.  Rostoch,  1614. 
Geor.  Crauscri  Phosphorus,Grecarum  Vocum  ct  Phrasium 
N.  Test.  &c.  4to.  Francof.  et  Lips.  1676, 
J.  C.  Dicterici  Antiquitates  N.  Test,  fob  Franc.  1671. 
A  Cocquii  Observationes  Criticb-sacrse  in  N.  Test. — de  Phi- 
losophic et  Doctrina  morum,  &c.  4to.  L.  Bat.  1678. 

P.  S.  Papenii  Lexicou  Onomato-Phraseologicum  in  Cod.  Sac. 
Nov*  Test.  4to.  Lips-  17'2S.  The  last  thirteen  works  are  in 
Dr.  A.  Clarke's  List  of  Critical  Works  on  the  New  Test. 

"Jo.  Tobise  Krebsii  Observationes  in  Nov.  Testam.  e  Flav. 
Joseph o,  8vo.  Lips.  1754. — Geo.  Dav.  Kypke  Observationes  in 
Novi  Foederis  Libros,  ex  auctoribus,  potissimum  Grecis,  &c. 
2  vol.  8vo.  Vratislavise,  1755. — Georgii  Rapheiii  Annotationes 
in  Sacram  Scripturam,  &c.  Lugd.  1747,  2  vol.  8vo. — Kvebs 
throws  much  light  on  different  facts  and  form?  of  sne^ch  in  iha 


^OTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  2QS 

New  Testament,  by  his  quotations  from  Josephus;  Kypke 
does  the  same,  by  an  appeal  to  the  Greek  Writers ;  and  Ra- 
pheliu8  gives  historical  elucidation  of  the  Old,  and  philological 
observations  on  the  New  Testament,  drawn  particularly  from 
Xenophon,  Polybius,  Arrian,  and  Herodotus."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Sharpe's  (Granville)  Three  Tracts  on  the  Syntax  and  Pro- 
nunciation of  the  Hebrew  tongue ;  &c.  12mo  1804«  Evan. 
Mag.  1S05,  p.  82.  See  also  the  Christian  Observer,  1804,  p. 
417. 

Sharpe's  (Granville)  Remarks  on  the  uses  of  the  Definitive 
Article,  in  the  Greek  Text  of  the  New,  Testament.  For  a 
high  character  of  this  work,  see  Bishop  Burgess*  Letter  to  Mr. 
Sharpe,  prefixed  to  the  second  edition.  Also  Wordsworth's 
Six  Letters,  and  Middleton's  Doctrine  of  the  Greek  Ar- 
ticle. 

Capelli  (Ludovici)  Arcanum  punctationis  revelatum.  Lugd. 
1624,  4to.  This  work,  by  questioning  the  antiquity  of  the 
vowel-points,  gave  rise  to  a  controversy,  which  has  never  yet 
been  decided.  "  The  best  defence  of  them,"  according  to  Dr. 
A.  Clarke,  "is  that  by  Mr.  Peter  Whitfield,  Liverpool, 
1748,  4to. 

Bos  Lamberti  Observationes  in  Nov.  Test.  Francq.1713,  8vo. 

Bos  Lamberti  Ellipses  Grsecse,  cum  notis  variorum  ;  ex  re- 
censione  Nic.  Sshwebellii.  Norimb.  1763,  8vo.— Cura  Mi- 
ehaelis,  Halse,  1765,  8vo.  «Bos,"  says  Dr.  \.  Clarke,  "was 
a  profound  scholar,  and  his  writings  are  all  deservedly  es- 
teemed. 

The  works  enumerated  in  this  and  the  preceding  Note, 
with  some  that  are  mentioned  in  other  parts  of  the  volume, 
constitute  a  list  of  the  more  valuable  pieces  on  biblical  criti- 
cism and  external  circumstances ;  and,  as  they  are  immediately 
connected  with  the  study  of  the  Scriptures,  they  form  a  requi- 
site, and,  it  is  hoped,  valuable  appendage  to  the  present  trea- 
tise. The  Translator  has  bestowed  some  pains  to  make  the 
selection  as  accurate  and  comnW*»  as  possible,  though  it  ta 


<3Gi  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

natural  to  expect,  that  not  a  few  standard  works  may  have  es* 
caped  his  notice.— With  reBpect  to  the  mode  in  which  they 
are  arranged,  other  writers  have  not  confined  themselves  to 
any  particular  order ;  and,  unless  it  be  that  in  which  these 
volumes  should  be  studied,  none  seems  strictly  necessary*  On 
this  point  the  reader  is  left  to  make  his  own  election»  Some 
pieces,  it  is  evident,  are  preparatory  to  the  study  of  the  sacred 
text ;  while  others  should  be  read  consecutively  ;  but  all  should 
be  perused  in  a  direct  subordination  to  a  spiritual  acquaintance 
with  the  livelv  Oracles. 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR»  807 


CHAPTER  III. 

Analytical  Reading. 


(a)  "  The  first  work  of  the  mind,"  observes  Dr.  Watts, 
*'  is  perception,  whereby  our  ideas  are  framed  ;  and  the  se- 
cond is  judgment,  which  joins  or  disjoins  our  ideas,  and  forms 
a  proposition ;  so,  the  third  is  reasoning,  which  joins  seve- 
ral propositions  together,  and  makes  a  syllogism. ;  that  is,  an 
argument  -whereby  ive  are  wont  to  infer  something  that  is  less 
known,  from  truths  which  are  more  evident.    Thus, 

Our  Creator  must  be  worshipped. 

God  is  our  Creator. 

Therefore,  God  must  be  worshipped. 
This  is  an  example  of  a  syllogism ;  of  which,  u  the  matter 
is  always  made  up  of  three  propositions  s  and  these  proposi- 
tions are  made  up  of  three  ideas  or  terms.  The  three  terms 
are  the  major,  the  minor,  and  the  middle.  The  middle  term 
is  the  third  idea,  invented  and  disposed  in  two  propositions,  in 
suoh  a  manner  as  to  show  the  connexion  between  the  major 
and  minor  term  in  the  conclusion."  Dr.  Watts'  Logic,  Part 
3.  Chap.  I.  &o. 

(b)  The  reader  may  refer  to  our  author's  Analyses  of  the 
epistles  to  the  Colossians  and  Ephesians,  appended  to  the  body 
of  this  work. 

(f)  See  Dr.  Watts'  IiOgic,  Prirt  3. 


2u0  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

(d)  "  The  subject  of  a  proposition  is  that,  concerning  which 
any  thing  is  affirmed  or  denied  ;  and  the  predicate  is  that 
which  is  affirmed  or  denied  of  the  subject.  Thus,  *  Plato  was 
a  Philosopher,'  is  a  proposition ;  in  which,  Plato  is  the  sub- 
ject, and  philosopher  the  predicate"    Dr.  Watts. 

(e)  "  The  art  of  reasoning'  or  inferring  one  thing  from  ano- 
ther, is  generally  expressed  and  known  by  the  particle  there- 
fore, when  the  argument  is  formed  according  to  the  rules  of 

art ;  though  in  common  discourse  and  writing,  such  casual 
particles  SLsfor,  because,  manifest  the  act  of  reasoning,  as  well 
as  the  illative  particles,  then  and  therefore  ;  and  wheresoever 
any  of  these  words  are  used,  there  is  a  perfect  syllogism  ex- 
pressed or  implied  ;  though  perhaps  the  three  propositions  do 
not  appear,  or  are  not  placed  in  regular  form."    Watts. 


hO  f  ES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  P? 


PART  II. 


CHAPTER  f, 

Expository  Reading, 


(a)  1.  II.  Stephani  Concordantiae  Grxco-Latinae,  Geneva^ 
1624,  and  Schmidii  Concordantiae  Graecae,  Novi  Testament^ 
fol.  Lips.  1717.  The  latter  "is,"  says  Dr.  A.  Clarke,  "a 
most  useful  and  excellent  work,  and  far  superior  to  the 
former." 

2.  Buxtorfii  Concordantiae  Bibliorum  Hebraicae  at  Chalda- 
ica?,  Basil.  1632  fol.  ««This  is  a  work  of  great  labour.  Dr. 
Taylor  of  Norwich  translated  and  greatly  improved  it  in  a 
work  entitled  tlie  Hebrew  Concordance  adapted  to  the  Eng- 
lish Bible,  disposed  after  the  manner  of  Buxtorf,  2  vol.  fol. 
Lond.  1754.  This  latter  is  an  invaluable  work ;  and  will  con- 
tinue in  high  repute,  while  the  Hebrew  Scriptures  are  held  in 
the  estimation  they  deserve."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Christian!  Noldii  Concordantise  Particularum  Ebraeo-Chal- 
daicarum  in  quibus  partium  indeclinabilium  quae  occurrunt  in 
Fontibus,  et  hactenus  non  expositae  sunt  in  Lexicis  aut  Con- 
cordantiis,  natura  et  sensuum  varietas  ostenditur.  Digerun- 
tur  ea  methodi  ut  Lexici  et  Concordantiarum  loco  simul  esse 
possint.  Accommodantur  hue  etiam  particular  Graecae,  &c, 
&c.  4to.  Jen»,  1734.  ««So  complete  is  this  Concordance,  that 
it  has  scarcely  left  any  thing  on  the  subject  unfinished  ;  and  it 


NOTES  BY  THE  i   , 

is  of  the  greatest  importance  to  every  biblical  student  and  cri- 
tic."   Dr.  A.Clarke. 

Abrabami  Trommii  Concordantise  GrEecae  Versionis  vnlgo 
diet»  LXX  Interpretum,  cujus  voces  secundum  ordinem  ele- 
mentorum  sermonis  Graeci  digest»  recensentur,  kc.  Legun- 
tur  hie  praeterea  voces  Graec»  pro  Hebraicis  redditse  ab  anti- 
quis  omnibus  Veteris  Test.  Interpretibus,  quorum  non  nisi 
fragmenta  extant,  Aquila,  Symmacho,  Theodotione,  et  aliis. 
Amstel-  et  Traject,  ad  Rhen.  1718,  2  vol.  fol.  "This,"  re- 
marks Dr.  A.  Clarke,  M  is  an  elaborate  and  useful  work." 

(&)  Cruden's  Complete  Concordance,  4to.  Lond.  and  4ta 
Edinb.  Of  this  work  Dr,  E.  Williams  observes,  that  it  is  "so 
complete,  that  nothing  remains  materially  deficient." 

Crutwell's  Concordance  of  Parallel  Passages  of  Scripture, 
collected  from  Bibles  and  Commentaries  which  have  been 
published  in  Hebrew,  Latin,  French,  Italian,  Spanish,  English, 
&c.  4to.  1790.  "  This  work,"  says  Dr.  E.  Williams,  «  sells 
high,  but  the  biblical  student  may  expect  good  interest»"  It 
is  in  the  Bishop  of  Lincoln's  list. 

The  best  Bible  on  the  plan  of  Canne's  appears  to  be  Scott's, 
a  new  edition  of  which  has  been  lately  published  by  the  author 
himself.  Mr.  S.  has  availed  himself  of  the  pious  labours  of  his 
predecessors  in  selecting  Marginal  References,  especially  of 
the  latter  Editions  of  the  Oxford  Bible  in  quarto,  of  Mr. 
Brown's  Bible,  and  Mr.  Canne's."  To  collect  these,  "  ex- 
clusively employed  the  author  full  four  years  as  his  unremit- 
ting labour." 

(c)  u  Analogy  of  faith  is  the  proportion  that  the  doctrines  of 
the  gospel  bear  to  each  other ;  or,  the  close  connexion  be- 
tween the  truths  of  revealed  religion  :  Rom.  xii.  6.  It  is  evi- 
dent that  the  Almighty  doth  not  act  without  a  design  in  the 
system  of  Christianity,  any  more  than  he  does  in  the  works  of 
Nature.    Now  this  design  must  bo  uniform  ;  for  as,  in  the  sys- 


XGTBS  BY  TlifVi  IRA.XSLA1  309 

tem  of  the  nniverse,  every  part  is  proportioned  to  the  "whole;, 
and  made  subservient  to  it;  so,  in  the  system  of  the  gospel,  all 
the  various  truths,  doctrines,  declarations,  precepts,  and  pro- 
mises, must  correspond  with,  and  tend  to  the  end  designed. 
For  instance,  supposing  the  gloiy  of  God  in  the  salvation  of 
man  by  free  grace,  be  the  grand  design ;  then,  whatever  doc- 
trine, assertion,  or  hypothesis  agrees  not  with  this,  it  is  to  he 
considered  a9  false."    Buck's  Theol.  Diet.  sub.  Art. 

(J)  The  following  Rules  are  proposed  by  that  able  exposi* 
tor,  Dr.  Campbell,  and  will,  I  doubt  net,  be  acceptable  to  the 
reader. 

1.  Get  acquainted  with  each  writer's  style. 

2.  Inquire  carefully  into  the  character,  the  situation,  and  the 
office  of  the  writer ;  the  time,  the  place,  the  occasion,  of  his 
writing ;  and  the  people  for  whose  immediate  use  he'origmaiiy 
intended  his  work. 

5.  Consider  the  principal  scope  of  the  hook,  and  the  parti- 
culars chiefly  observable  in  the  method  by  which  the  writer 
has  purposed  to  execute  his  design. 

4.  Where  the  phrase  is  obscure,  the  context  must  be  con- 
sulted.   This,  however,  will  not  always  answer. 

5.  If  it  do  not,  consider  whether  the  phrase  be  any  of  the 
writer's  peculiarities ;  if  so,  it  must  be  inquired  what  is  the 
acceptation  in  which  he  employs  it  in  other  places. 

6.  If  this  be  not  sufficient,  recourse  should  be  had  to  the 
parallel  passages,  if  there  be  an}'  such  in  the  other  sacred 
writer?. 

7.  If  this  throw  no  light,  consult  the  N$w  Testament  and 
the  Septuagint,  where  the  word  may  be  used. 

S.  If  the  term  be  on'y  once  used  in  Scripture,  then  recur  to 
the  ordinary  acceptation  of  the  term  in  classical  authors. 

0.  Sometimes  reference  may  be  had  to  the  Fathers. 

10.  The  ancient  versions,  as  well  as  modern  scholiasts,  an» 
MitorSj  and  transl  be  consulted. 


m  -NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

11.  The  analogy  of  faith,  and  the  etymology  of  the  word, 
must  be  used  with  caution. 

(e)  Martin  Gejer,  a  German  Divine,  born  at  Leipsic,  in 
1614.  His  Commentaries  on  the  Old  Testament  were  printed 
in  2  vols.  fol.  Moreri. 

(/)  Vide  the  preceding  notes  (^)  and  (h)  in  Part  I  . 
Chap.  II. 

(g)  The  following  list  of  Commentaries,  which  as  Externa": 
Helps  ought  to  be  noticed  here,  includes  those  which  are  highly 
esteemed  and  well  recommended. 

COMMENTATORS  ON  THE  WHOLE 
SCRIPTURES. 

u  Brennius.- — His  notes  are  exceedingly  short,  but  very  im- 
portant. And  there  was  reason  to  say  of  him,  Ubi  bene,  7iemcy 
melius,  &c".    Dr.  Doddridge. 

"Brown's  Self-Interpreting  Bible  is  an  admirable  book  ei- 
ther for  ministers  or  families.  Its  chief  excellencies  are  the 
marginal  references,  which  are  exceedingly  useful  to  preach- 
ers ;  and  the  close,  plain,  and  practical  improvement  to  each 
chapter. "    (Buck.)  2  vols.  4to.  1808. 

Calmet's  Biblia  Sacra  Latina  et  Gallice,  cum  Comment, 
Literal  et  Critic,  fol.  8  vol.  in  9,  Paris,  1724.— M  This  is  the 
best  edition ;  but  that  done  since  in  26  vol.  fol.  has  the  author's 
dissertations.  Besides  this,  there  is  an  edition  in  9  vol.  fol. 
Paris,  Emery,  Saugrain  and  Martin,  1719 — 17-26.  It  has  a 
vast  apparatus  of  Prefaces  and  Dissertations,  in  which  immense 
learning,  good  sense,  sound  judgment,  and  deep  piety,  are  in- 
variably displayed.  Though  the  Vulgate  is  his  text,  yet  he 
notices  all  its  variations  from  the  Hebrew  and  Greek  originals, 
and  generally  builds  his  criticisms  on  these.  He  quotes  all  the 
ancient  Commentators,  and  most  of  the  modern,  whether  Ca= 
tholic  or  Protestant.    His  Illustrations  of  many  difficult  Texts, 


SOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  211 

referring  to  Idolatrous  Customs,  Rites,  Ceremonies,  &c,  from 
the  Greek  and  Roman  Classics  are  abundant,  appropriate,  and 
successful.  His  Tables,  Maps,  Plans,  &c.  are  very  judiciously 
constructed,  and,  consequently,  very  useful.  This  is,  without 
exception,  the  best  Comment  ever  published  on  the  Sacred 
Writings,  either  by  Catholics  or  Protestants."   Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Clarke's  (Samuel)  Annotations,  1  vol.  fol.  "  The  notes  are 
very  short,  and  many  of  them  but  a  word  or  two.  They  are 
placed  under  the  several  verses  with  marks  of  reference, 
Frequently  a  sentence  or  expression  is  explained  merely  by 
referring  to  some  other  passage.  Dr.  Doddridge  made  this 
his  common  place  book,  in  the  margin  of  which,  he  inserted 
notes  and  references  in  short  hand,  and  used  to  recommend 
it  to  his  pupils  (as  preferable  to  all  others  for  this  purpose.") 
Palmer's  Noncon.  Mem. 

"  Coke  (the  Rev.  Dr. )  has  lately  published  a  Commentary 
on  the  Old  and  New  Testaments,  in  6  vol.  4to.  This  is,  in 
the  main,  a  reprint  of  the  work  of  Dr.  Dodd,  with  several  re- 
trenchments and  some  additional  reflections ;  but  all  the  mar* 
ginal  readings  and  parallel  texts  are  entirely  omitted."  Br, 
A.  Clarke. 

"Cradock's  three  volumes  are  very  valuable;  though  I 
think  (contrary  to  most  others,)  that  the  last  two  on  the  New 
Testament  are  much  better  than  the  first  on  the  Old.  His 
extracts  in  the  margin  from  Hammond,  Lightfoot,  and  Grc- 
tius  are  very  judicious ;  and  1  think,  on  the  whole,  I  never 
read  any  one  author,  that  assisted  me  more  in  what  relates  to 
the  New  Testament.  His  schemes  of  the  Epistles  are  gene- 
rally more  just  than  those  of  the  ingenious  writers  mentioned 
above  ;  because  he  takes  the  design  of  the  apostles  to  be,  as  it 
certainly  was,  more  general  than  they  suppose."  Dr.  Dod° 
dridge, 

"  Dodd  (the  late  Dr.  Wm.)  published  a  Commentary  on  the 
Old  and  New  Testaments,  3  vols.  fol.  Lond.  1770.  Much  of 
it  h  taken  from  the  Comment  of  Father  Calmet,  already  de* 


Stf  rE$  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

scribed ;  but  he  has  enriched  his  work  by  many  valuable  notes, 
which  he  extracted  from  the  inedited  papers  of  Lord  Claren- 
don, Dr.  Waterland,  and  Mr.  Locke.  He  has  also  borrowed 
many  important  notes  from  Father  Houbigant.  This  work, 
as  giving  in  general  the  true  sense  of  the  Scriptures,  is  by  far 
the  best  comment  that  has  yet  appeared  in  the  English  lan- 
guage."   Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

*  Gill's  Exposition  abounds  with  rabbinical  and  theological 
information;  but,  though  upon  the  whole  a  very  valuable 
work,  it  is  often  prolix  and  tautological,  and  sometimes  injudi- 
cious." (Dr.  E.  Williams.)  «'He  was  a  very  learned  and 
good  man  ;  but  has  often  lost  sight  of  his  better  judgment  in 
spiritualizing  his  text."  (Dr.  A.  Clarke.)  Of  this  work,  Dr. 
Rippon  has  recently  published  a  new  edition,  in  9  vols.  4to. 

"  A  work  entitled  An  Illustration  of  the  Sacred  Writings, 
was  published  by  Mr.  Goadby,  at  Sherborne.  It  contains  many 
judicious  notes ;  has  gone  through  several  editions ;  and,  while 
it  seems  to  be  orthodox,  is  written  entirely  on  the  Arian  hy- 
pothesis."   Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Grotii  Opera  Theologica.  fol.  4  vol.  "  The  best  edition  is 
that  of  London,  1697." — "  Grotius  has  done  more  to  illustrate 
the  Scriptures  by  what  is  called  profane  learning»  than  per- 
haps almost  all  the  other  Commentators  put  together."— 
*  To  give  the  literal  and  genuine  sense  of  the  Sacred  Writings 
is  always  the  laudable  study  of  this  great  man." — "  Neverthe- 
less, he  too  often  gives  up  prophecies  which,  in  their  original 
sense,  relate  to  the  Messiah."  Dr.  Doddridge,  and  Dr.  A. 
Clarke. 

<(  Henry  is  perhaps  the  only  commentator  so  large,  that  de- 
serves  to  be  entirely  and  attentively  read  through.  The  re* 
markable  passages,  I  think,  should  be  marked.  There  is 
much  to  be  learned  in  this  work  in  a  speculative,  and  still 
more  in  a  practical  way.  The  last  volume  is  not,  on  the  whole, 
equal  to  the  rest ;  though  the  Exposition  of  the  Romans,  be- 
gun bv  H.enrv  frod  finished  bv  Dr.  Evans,  is  th*»  brst  I  eve? 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  213 

saw."  (Or.  Doddridge.)  It  is  to  be  observed  that  Mr.  Henry 
did  not  live  ro  complete  this  work ;  part  of  the  Romans,  as 
Dr.  Doddridge  remarks,  and  all  the  subsequent  books,  were 
done  by  other  hands.  A  new  and  correct  edition  has  been 
lately  published  by  Messrs.  Hughes  and  Burder,  in  6  vols.  4to. 
"  Jerome  is  one  of  the  most  useful  of  the  Fathers,  whether 
Greek  or  Latin.  His  Translation  of  the  Scriptures,  commonly 
called  the  Vulgate,  is  an  invaluable  work,  of  great  authority 
in  biblical  criticism,  and  justly  ranked  with  the  original  texts." 
• — u  He  is  author  of  a  very  valuable  comment  on  all  the  Bible." 
— - "  His  commentaries  on  the  Prophets,  Ecclesiastes,  Matthew, 
the  Epistles  to  the  Galatians,  Ephesians,  Titus,  and  Philemon, 
are  very  valuable."  Hieronyrai  opera  a  Dominico  Vallarsio, 
fol.  Veronse,  1734-42,  11  vols.  "This  is  called  the  best  edi- 
tion."   Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"  Martin  (David  of  Utrecht,)  not  only  translated  the  whole 
of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments  into  French,  but  also  wrote 
short  notes  on  both,  which  contain  much  good  sense,  learning, 
and  piety.     Amsterdam,  1707,  2  vols,  fol."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Poole's  Annotations,  2  vols.  fol.  Lond.  1688,  and  a  late  edi- 
tion, 4  vols.  4to.  Edinb.  Of  the  first  volume,  Dr.  Doddridge 
says,  it  is  "  incomparably  good ;"  and  Dr.  A.  Clarke,  in  refe- 
rence to  the  whole,  observes  that  "  the  notes  are  short,  but 
abound  with  good  sense  and  seund  judgment." 

"  Priestley  (the  late  Dr.)  compiled  a  body  of  notes  on  the 
Old  and  New  Testaments,  in  3  vols.  8vo.  published  at  North- 
umberland in  America,  1804.  Though  the  Doctor  keeps  his 
own  creed  (Unitarianism,)  continually  in  view,  especially 
when  considering  those  Texts  which  other  religious  people 
adduce  in  favour  of  theirs,  yet  his  work  contains  many  valua- 
ble Notes  and  observations,  especially  on  the  philosophy,  na- 
tural history,  geography,  and  chronology  of  the  Scriptures ; 
and  to  these  subjects,  few  men  in  Europe  were  better  qualified 
f.o  do  justice."    Dj\  A.  Clarke. 

is* 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

"  Robertson  is  in  rather  too  pedantic  a  form  ;  but,  upon  the 
whole,  the  analysis  is  very  good  ;  and,  perhaps,  those  who 
have  studied  their  Bibles  most  closely,  and  know  where  diffi- 
culties in  the  connexion  lie,  will  approve  it  most ;  especially 
on  the  Old  Testament,  which  far  exceeds  the  New."  Dr. 
Doddridge. 

Scott's  Bible,  a  new  edition  of  which  has  been  lately  pub- 
lished, under  the  care  of  the  author  himself.  "  The  author's 
aim  seems  to  be,  to  speak  plain  truth  to  plain  men  ;  and,  for 
this  purpose,  he  has  interspersed  a  multitude  of  practical  ob- 
servations all  through  the  text,  which  cannot  fail,  from  tbe 
spirit  of  sound  piety  which  they  breathe,  of  being  very  useful." 
(Dr.  A.  Clarke.)  The  recommendation  of  the  edition  now 
publishing  at  New  York,  which  is  signed  by  some  of  the  first 
divines  in  the  United  States,  gives  the  following  appropriate 
character  of  the  work. — u  Scott's  Family  Bible  is  a  work  of 
the  greatest  merit  and  usefulness.  The  author  has  examined 
the  Sacred  Text  with  uncommon  care,  and  given  an  exposi* 
tion  of  it,  at  once  judicious,  evangelical,  and  interesting.  We 
consider  it  peculiarly  adapted  for  the  instruction,  consolation, 
and  establishment  of  the  great  body  of  Christians." 

Walafridi  Strabunis  Glosss  Ordinaria?,  "  is  properly  a  Ca- 
tena  or  collection  of  all  Comments  of  the  Greek  and  Latin  Fa* 
thers  prior  to  his  time.  The  best  edition  of  this  valuable  work 
was  printed  at  Antwerp  in  1634."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"  Wells'  book  is  more  despised  than  it  ought  to  be.  The 
character  of  the  author  was  deservedly  low,  and  his  style 
sometimes  is  intolerably  bad  ;  but  his  method  of  division  is 
very  clear.  He  has  plundered  a  great  many  excellent  writers; 
brought  together  their  spoils  in  a  little  room  ;  added,  here  and 
there,  some  very  good  notes  of  his  own  ;  and  he  has  well  cor- 
rected the  common  version."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

Wesley's  Notes  on  the  Old  and  New  Testaments,  4  vols. 
4to.  Bristol,  1765.  "The  notes  on  the  Old  Testament,  arc 
allowed,  on  all  hands,  to  be  mcajrre  awl  unsatisfactory  (which 


XQTES  BY  THE  TBASSLATOR,  $* 

happened,  in  consequence  of  the  author's  retrenching'  them  in 
order  to  get  the  work  within  the  prescribed  limits  of  four  vo~ 
fames.)  The  notes  on  the  New  Testament,  which  have  gone 
through  several  editions,  are  of  a  widely  different  description ; 
though  short,  they  are  always  judicious,  accurate,  spiritual, 
terse,  an  d impressive,  and  possess  the  happy  and  rare  quality 
of  leading  the  reader  immediately  to  God  and  his  own  heart." 
Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

S.  Burder's  Scripture  Expositor,  4to.  <c  A  principal  object 
of  this  work,  is  to  illustrate  the  Scripture,  by  references  to  the 
customs  and  literature  of  the  East.  To  this  particular  study, 
the  author  has  been  long  accustomed,  and  the  fruits  of  his  la- 
bours are  already  before  the  public,  in  his  Oriental  Customs, 
&c" — "  The  practical  observations  are  concise  but  good ;  and 
the  principles  of  the  v/ork  purely  evangelical."  Evan.  Mag. 
1809. 

Besides  the  above  works,  there  are  several  others  in  the 
course  of  publication  which  merit  notice. 

Benson's  (the  Rev.  Joseph)  Bible,  fol.  and  4to.  with  Notes, 
critical,  explanatory,  and  practical.  Dr,  A.  Clarke  observes, 
that  "from  the  author's  learning,  piety,  and  theological 
knowledge,  much  may  be  expected,  if  the  confined  limits  of 
his  plan  (one  vol.  fol.,)  do  not  prevent  him  from  enriching 
the  work  with  his  own  valuable  criticisms  and  observations." 
I  am  happy  to  add,  that  it  has  been  found  necessary  to  extend 
the  work  beyond  the  limits  proposed. 

Dr  Adam  Clarke's  Commentary  and  Critical  Notes.  "In 
this  edition  of  the  Bible,  the  whole  of  the  Text  has  been  col- 
lated with  the  most  correct  copies  of  the  present  authorized 
version  : — the  most  difficult  words  in  the  Hebrew  and  Greek 
Originals  analyzed  and  explained  : — the  most  important  Read» 
£ngs  in  the  Collations  of  Kennicott  and  De  Rossi,  on  the  Old 
Testament,  and  in  those  of  Mill,  Griesbach,  and  Wetstein, 
on  the  New,  noticed :— the  Date  of  every  Transaction,  as  far 
Bca  k  Vr-  &$en  ascertained  by  the  best  Ckntoologets  marked; 


2U  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

■—the  peculiar  customs  of  the  Jews  and  neighbouring  Nations, 
so  frequently  alluded  to  by  the  Prophets,  Evangelists,  and 
Apostles,  explained  from  the  best  Asiatic  Authorities  :  the 
great  Doctrines  of  the  Law  and  Gospel  of  God,  defined,  illus- 
trated, and  defended  :  and  the  whole  applied  to  the  impor- 
tant purposes  of  Practical  Christianity."  How  eminently  cal- 
culated Dr.  A  Clarke  is  for  this  learned  and  honourable  la- 
bour, and  how  ably  the  whole  has  hitherto  been  executed,  it 
is  unnecessary  to  inform  the  reader. 

ON  the  old  testament. 

"  Pyle's  Paraphrase  upon  the  Old  Testament,  in  4  vols. 
8vo.  16  an  elegant  and  judicious  contraction  of  Bishop  Patrick's 
Comment,  and  vastly  to  be  preferred  to  his  Paraphrase  on  the 
Epistles."     Dr.  Doddridge. 

«c  Orton's  Exposition  of  the  Old  Testament,  6  vols.  8vo. 
Shrewsbury,  1787,  has  many  good  hints  ;  but  is  chiefly  valua- 
ble for  the  reflections  at  the  close  of  each  chapter."  Dr.  E. 
Williams. 

ON  THE  NEW  TESTAMENT. 

Baxter's  New  Testament  with  Notes,  8vo.  1695.  "  The 
Notes  are  interspersed  with  the  text,  and  are  very  short ;  but 
they  contain  much  sound  sense  and  piety"    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

J.  Bengelii  Gnomon  Novi  Testament!  in  quo  ex  nativa  Ver- 
borum  vi,  Simplicitas,  Profunditas,  Concinnitas,  Salubritas  Sen- 
suum  Celestium  indicatur,  4to.  Ulmce,  Gaum,  1763.  "  An 
excellent  edition."  Republished  4to.  Tubing.  Cotta,  1773. 
This  work  "contains  an  instructive  preface,  a  perspicuous 
analysis  of  each  book,  with  short  notes ;  in  the  true  taste  of 
judicious  criticism.  His  plan  is  a  perfect  contrast  of  that  of 
Wolfius : — •  Simplicem  fere  veritatem,  sine  sylva  multarum 
opinionum,  propono.'  "  In  the  course  of  this  work,  the  reader 
must  have  remarked  the  great  stress  which  our  author  has  laid 
on  reading  the  Scriptures  by  complete  subjects,  and  not  ac. 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR,  <&! 

cording  to  the  arbitrary  division  of  chapters ;  "  by  wh*  With 
Dr.  Doddridge  remarks,  "  the  sense  of  Scripture  is  oftenyew 
scured."  I  am  happy  to  add,  on  the  authority  of  Dr.  0f 
Clarke,  that  "  Bengel  is  author  of  an  edition  of  the  New  Tes- 
tament, with  such  a  judicious  division  of  it  into  paragraphs, 
as  has  never  been  equalledy  and  perhaps  never  can  be  ex* 
celled.    See  note  (a)  Chap.  I.  Part  I. 

Bezae  Annotationes,  in  quibus  ratio  interpretationis  reddi- 
tur ;  accessit  etiam  J.  Camerarii  in  Novum  Fosdus  Commen- 
tarius,  fol.  Cantab.  1642.  "The  best  edition."—-" Beza  is 
undoubtedly  the  best  critic  on  the  Greek  language  of  any  com- 
mentator we  have.  There  is  no  translation,  that  I  know  ofj 
equal  to  his ;  and  his  remarks  on  Erasmus  and  the  vulgar  La» 
tin,  are  wrought  up  to  the  utmost  degree  of  exactness.  On 
the  whole  it  is  an  invaluable  treasure,  and  deserves  to  be  read 
with  the  utmost  attention."  (Dr.  Doddridge.)  "It  contains, 
besides  the  old  Latin  version,  Beza's  own  version ;  and  in  tho 
side  margin  is  given  a  summary  of  the  passage,  and,  in  the  ar- 
gumentative parts,  the  connexion.  The  Annotations  are  chiefly 
verbal  criticisms,  tending  to  justify  his  version."  Dr.  E.  Wil- 
liams. 

Burkitt's  Commentary,  4to.  "has  but  few  valuable  criti- 
cisms ;  but  he  has  many  schemes  of  old  sermons.  His  senti- 
ments vary  in  different  parts  of  his  work,  as  the  authors  whence 
he  took  his  materials,  were  orthodox  or  not."  (Dr.  Doddridge.) 
"Burkitt  contains  many  ingenious  observations,  fine  turns, 
natural  plans,  and  pungent  addresses  to  the  conscience. 
(Buck.)  Dr.  A.  Clarke  considers  it  "both  pious  and  prac- 
tical ;  but  not  distinguished  either  by  depth  of  learning  or 
judgment." 

Doddridge's  Family  Expositor,  or  a  Paraphrase  and  Ver- 
sion of  the  New  Testament,  with  critical  notes  and  a  practi- 
cal improvement  of  each  Section,  4  vol,  4to.  Dr.  Doddridge 
is  "a  masterly  expositor,  and  has  illustrated  the  gospels  in  the 
most  elegant  taste  of  criticism ;  with  the  most  amiable  spirit 


jtes  by  hie  translator, 

.ion  ;  and  without  any  mixture  of, the  malignant  leaven 
—the  per  w  singularities  of  party."  (Hervey  )  «'The  Family 
so  freq»  i>os,t°r  (w*th  the  exception  of  the  Paraphrase)  is  a  very 
Apo^a^lCIOUS  w0l*k-  It  has  been  long  highly  esteemed  and  is  wor- 
pr  thy  of  all  the  credit  it  has  among  religious  people."  Dr.  A. 
Clarke. 

"  Erasmus  is  well  known,  not  only  as  an  able  Editor  of  the 
Greek  Testament,  but  as  an  excellent  Commentator  upon  it. 
For  many  years,  the  Notes  of  Erasmus  served  for  the  founda- 
tion of  all  the  Comments  that  were  written  on  the  New  Tes- 
tament ;  and  his  Latin  version  itself  was  deemed  an  excellent 
Comment  on  the  Text,  because  of  its  faithfulness  and  simpli- 
city." (Dr.  A.  Clarke.)  "  Erasmus  is  not  equally  accurate 
with  Beza ;  but  his  Latin  is  fine,  and  he  has  written  in  a  plea- 
sant style.  There  are  many  good  remarks  on  the  vulgar  trans- 
lation, some  early  various  readings,  and  some  pretty  large  cri- 
tical dissertations ;  but  it  is  by  no  means  of  a  piece,  and  has 
many  marks  of  haste  and  inaccuracy."  (Dr.  Doddridge.)  "  The 
best  edition  of  his  works  is,  11  vols.  fol.  Lugd.  Bat.  1703.  cura 
Clerici." — Bib.  Dictionary, 

Gillies'  New  Testament,  with  Devotional  Reflections,  2 
vols.  8vo.  1810.  '*  What  Dr.  Erskine  says  of  this  author's 
works  in  general,  applies  peculiarly  to  his  Devotional  Reflec- 
tions. '  They  are  beautiful  and  striking,  though  undesigned 
pictures  of  his  pious  and  benevolent  heart.'  They  are  the  de- 
vout aspirations  of  a  soul  breathing  after  God  and  heaven,  and 
the  salvation  of  mankind — We  beg  leave  to  add,  that  we  con- 
sider it  as  a  most  valuable  book  for  those  who  lead  family  de- 
votion;  every  important  fact,  doctrine,  or  precept,  being  made 
the  ground  and  matter  of  prayer ;  and  that  in  such  a  style,  as 
to  be  an  excellent  model  of  devotion,  either  to  ministers  or 
private  Christians."    Evan.  Mag.  vol.  19.  p.  269. 

"  Guyse's  Practical  Expositor,  or  an  Exposition  of  the  New 
Testament,  in  the  form  of  a  Paraphrase  with  occasional  Notes, 
smd  serious  Reflections  at  the  end  of  each  chapter,  3  vols,  4to, 


KOTSS BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  su 

and  6  vols.  8vo.    Dr.  Guvse  has  shown  his  solid  j  ,^e  \     VVith 
learning;   and  without  any  affectation  and  needlt  \l0\e  New 
criticism,  has  given  the  reader  as  full  a  view  of  th  coun^  0f 
the  best  interpreters,  and  as  comprehensive  an  insight  rf.  n0* 
scope  and  meaning  of  the  New  Testament,  as  is  likel)      . 
haps,  to  be  met  with  in  the  same  compass  of  words."     (  ,  ^ 
mus  Middleton's  Biograph.  Evan.)     "  Guyse's  Paraphrase 
is  deservedly  held  in  high  estimation,  for  sound  doctrine,  fair 
explication,  and  just  sentiment."     (Buck's  Theol  Diet.)    "  If 
this  work,"  says  Dr.  E.  Williams,  "  has  not  an  air  of  elegant 
criticism  and  modern  refinement,  like  Doddridge's  Family 
Expositor,  it  is  very  sound  and  judicious ;  expressed  in  a  3tyle 
significant,  perspicuous,  and  correct,  though  not  ornamented." 

Hardy's  Greek  Testament,  "  With  a  great  variety  of  useful 
Notes,  chiefly  extracted  from  Poole's  Synopsis.  The  work  is 
in  2  vols.  8vo.  Lond.  1768  ;  and  is  a  very  useful  companion  to 
every  biblical  student.  It  has  gone  through  two  editions,  the 
first  of  which  is  the  best ;  but  it  must  be  acknowledged,  that 
the  Greek  Text  in  both  is  inexcusably  incorrect."  Dr.  A. 
Clarke. 

"Dr.  Henry  Hammond  is  celebrated  orer  Europe,  as  a 
very  learned  and  judicious  divine.  He  wrote  an  extensive 
Comment  on  the  Psalms,  first  published  in  1659,  and  on  the 
whole  of  th^g  J\*ew  Testament,  in  1653.  In  this  latter  Work, 
he  imagjpes  he  sees  the  Gnostics  every  where  pointed  at ;  and 
be  uses  them  as  a  universal  menstruum  to  dissolve  all  the  diffi- 
culties in  the  Text."  (Dr.  A.  Clarke.)  "Hammond  is  in 
great  and  growing  reputation ;  there  are  indeed  many  good 
criticisms»  but  many  that  are  much  mistaken.  He  finds  the 
Gnostics  every  where,  which  is  his  principal  fault.  Many  of 
he  Clerc's  animadversions  upon  those  places  are  very  good  ; 
and  his  edition  of  this  book  in  Latin,  I  think  much  preferable 
to  the  original."  (Dr.  Doddridge.)  "  Hammond,"  says  Dr. 
E.  Williams,  "  excels  in  learned  criticism  (to  be  read  cum 
grano  satis") 


Oi\LS  BY  Hit,  TRANSLATOR 

ion  •  f^ic  ^ew  Testament  is  a  collection  orNotes  chiefiy 
— the  r  w  s\nrrh  which  the  author  gathered  in  the  course  of  his 
so  fre30sitor  they  are  not  very  judiciously  chosen,  but  there  are 
Apr  »•  •  .rticulars  in  them  which  are  to  be  met  with  no  where 
> i.  of  T  at  least  in  authors  we  shall  never  consult :  and  there- 
p,    .ire  worth  the  little  money  they  cost."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

"In  1693-4,  Father  Quesnel,  published  in  French  at  Bras-* 
sels,  «Moral  Reflections  on  the  New  Testament,  in  8  vols  12mo> 
The  Author  was  a  man  of  deep  piety  ;  and  were  it  not  for  the 
rigid  Jansenian  predestinarianism  which  it  contains,  it  would, 
as  a  Spiritual  Comment,  be  invaluable.  The  work  was  trans- 
lated into  English  by  the  Rev.  E.  Russel,  and  published  in  4, 
vol.  8vo  Lond.  1719,  &c.  In  this  work  the  reader  must  not 
expect  any  elucidation  of  the  difficulties,  or  indeed  of  the  text 
of  the  New  Testament ;  the  design  of  Father  Quesnel  is  to 
draw  spiritual  uses  from  his  text  and  apply  them  to  moral  pur- 
poses."   Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"  Wells  (Dr.  Edward,)  published  a  very  useful  Testament 
in  Greek  and  English,  in  several  parcels,  with  Notes,  from 
1709  to  1719  ;  in  which,  1.  The  Greek  Text  is  amended,  ac- 
cording to  the  best  and  most  ancient  Readings.  2.  The  com- 
mon English  Translation  rendered  more  agreeable  to  the  Ori- 
ginal. 3.  A  Paraphrase  explaining  the  difficult  expressions, 
design  of  the  Sacred  Writer,  &c,  4.  Short  Annotations.  Thi3 
is  a  judicious  useful  work."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

'•  Of  merely  critical  Comments  on  the  Greek  Testament^ 
the  most  valuable  is  that  of  J.  James  Wetstein.  2  vol.  fol. 
Amst.  1751-2.  Almost  every  peculiar  form  of  speech  in  the 
Sacred  Text,  he  has  illustrated  by  quotations  from  Jewish, 
Greek  and  Roman  writers."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Whitby's  Paraphrase  and  Commentary,  2  vol,  4to.  10th 
edition,  is  usually  connected  with  Patrick  and  Lowth,  to 
form  a  complete  exposition  of  the  whole  Scriptares.  "  Whitby 
is  learned,  argumentative,  and  thoroughly  orthodox.~~T)\z 
best  Comment  on  the  New  Test! 


NOiilb  iil  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

view  is  certainly  that  of  Whiiby."  (Dr.  A,  Clarke.)  With 
this  judgment  Dr.  Doddridge  coincides—**  On  the  whole  New- 
Testament,  Whitby  is  preferable  to  any  other,  on  account  of 
his  learning  and  judicious  notes  on  those  texts  which  are  not 
concerned  in  controversy  with  the  Arminians  ;  for  to  them  he 
is  evidently  partial  and  sometimes  carries  matters  almost  to  ri- 
diculous extremes." 

Wolfii  curae  Philologies  et  Critiese,  in  Nov.  Test.  4  vols. 
4to.  Hamb.  1733-34;  and  5  vols.  Basil.  1741,  "The  latter  is 
the  best  edition."— "  This,"  says  Dr.  E.  Williams,  **is  in  a 
great  measure  a  compilation,  after  the  manner  of  Poole's  Sy- 
nopsis ;  but  Wolfius  does  not  simply  relate  the  sentiments  of 
others,  but  frequently  animadverts  on  them  with  great  critical 
discernment." 

OA~  THE  SELECT  PARTS  OF  THE  OLD  AJYD 
J\EW  TESTAMENTS. 

S.  Augustini  Opera,  Benedictin.  11  vols.  fol.  Paris,  1679  to 
1700.  To  this  laborious  and  voluminous  writer,  we  are  in- 
debted for  muoh  valuable  information  on  the  Sacred  Writings." 
Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Calvini  Opera  omnia  Theologica,  Amstel.  1671  et  ann.  seqq, 
9  vols,  fol* — **  Calvin  has  a  multitude  of  judicious  thoughts  ; 
but  they  are  generally  intermingled  with  a  great  many  that 
are  little  to  the  purpose.  His  worst  volume,  which  is  that  on 
Job,  is  most  scarce.  His  two  best  are,  I  think,  that  on  the 
Pentateuch,  and  on  the  harmony  of  the  Evangelists."  (Dr, 
Doddridge.)  **He  is,  in  general,  a  very  able  judicious  expo- 
sitor ;  his  method,  perspicuous  ;  his  manner,  popular ;  with  a 
style  pure  and  pleasing."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Chry80stomi  Opera,  Edit.  Benedictin.  Montfaucon,  13  vols, 
Gr.  et.  Lat.  fol.  Paris,  1718,  1738.  "The  best  edition."— 
"Chrysostom  is  well  known  and  justly  celebrated  for  his 
learning,  skill,  and  eloquence,  in  his  Homilies  on  the  Sacred 
Writings,  particular^  the  psalms,"  fDr  A.  Clarke.)  •?  AH 
1? 


NOILS  l\\  THE  TRANSLATOR* 

his  discourse  tends  to  persuasion;  he  placed  every  thing  in 
judgment ;  and  was  well  acquainted  with  the  Holy  Scriptures 
and  the  manners  of  men.  He  entered  into  their  hearts,  and 
rendered  things  familiarly  sensible  to  them.  He  had  sublime 
and  solid  notions,  and  is  sometimes  very  affecting."  Archbishop 
Fenelon. 

De  Dieu  Critica  Sacra,  sive  Animadversiones  in  loca  quae- 
dam  difficiliora  Vet.  et  Nov.  Test. — Suffixa  est  Apocalypsis 
Syriaca  quam  ante  aliquot  annos  ex  M.  S.  Josephi  Scaligeri 
auctor  primus  edidit,  versione  Latina  Notisque  illustravit. 
Amstel.  1693,  fol.  "De  Dieu  wrote  Animadversions  on  the 
Old  and  New  Testament,  in  which  are  many  valuable  things**» 
— C4  Perhaps  no  man  possessed  a  more  consummate  knowledge 
of  the  Oriental  languages,  nor  employed  his  knowledge  to  more 
useful  purposes."    Dr.  A.  Clatke. 

Drusius  (John)  was  an  able  Commentator;  he  penetrated 
the  literal  sense  of  Scripture :  and  in  his  animadversions, 
Hebrew  Questions,  Explanations  of  Proverbs,  and  Observa- 
tions on  the  Rites  and  Customs  of  the  Jew9,  he  has  cast  much 
light  on  many  parts  of  the  Sacred  Writings."  (Dr  A.  Clarke.) 
The  Comments  of  Drusius  are  in  the  Critici  Sacri,  which  will 
presently  come  under  our  notice. 

Lightfoot's  Works,  2  large  vols.  foi.  1684.  They  "contain"  a 
chronicle  of  the  times,  and  the  order  of  the  text  of  the  Old 
Testament;  the  harmony,  chronicle,  and  order  of  the  New  ; 
the  harmony  of  the  four  Evangelists  among  themselves  ;  a 
commentary  on  the  Acts  ;  Horse  Hebraic»,  &c.  on  the  four 
Evangelists,  the  Acts,  and  the  first  epistle  to  the  Corinthians. 
Most  of  this  author's  remarks  are  deeply  critical  and  curious." 
(Dr.  E.  Williams.)  u  He  was  a  profound  scholar,  a  sound  di- 
vine, and  a  pious  man.  He  brought  all  his  immense  learning 
to  bear  on  the  Sacred  Volumes,  and  diffused  light  wherever 
he  went.  His  Historical,  Chronological,  and  Topographical 
Remarks  on  the  Old  Testament,  and  his  Talmudical  Exerci- 
tstions  on  the  New*;  are  invaluable*"    (Dr.  A.  Clarke.)  "  He 


NOTES  IA  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

has  collected  a  multitude  of  Useful  and  excellent  illustrations 
of  Scriptures  from  the  Talmud  and  other  Jewish  -writings. 
He  has  also  shown  the  force  of  many  others,  especially  in  his 
Harmony.  But  he  rather  illustrates  particular  texts  well, 
than  gives  a  good  account  of  the  series  of  a  discourse.  And  he 
seems  tome  very  often  mistaken  in  his  dates,  and  in  whathe  says 
on  the  occasion  particularly  in  many  of  the  Psalms."  Dr. 
Doddridge. 

"  On  the  Plan  of  Lightfoot*s  Horse  Hebraic»;,  a  work  was 
undertaken  by  Christian  Schoettgenius  with  the  title,  Horie 
Hebraic»  et  Talmudicse  in  universum  Novum  Testamentum, 
quibus  horse  Jo.  Lightfooti  in  Libris  Historicis  supplentur  Epis- 
tolae  et  Apocalypsis  eodem  modo  illustrantur,  &c.  Dresdse, 
1733,  2  vols.  4to.  The  Horre  Hebraic»  of  Lightfoot  extend  no 
farther  than  the  First  Epistle  to  the  Corinthians  :  the  work  of 
Schoettgen  passes  over  the  same  ground  as  a  Supplement, 
without  touching  the  things  already  produced  in  the  English 
work ;  and  then  continues  the  work  on  the  same  plan  to  the 
end  of  the  New  Testament.  It  is  both  scarce  and  dear."  Dr. 
A.  Clarke. 

"Newton  (Bishop)  on  the  Prophecies,  2  vols.  Svo.  1793, 
treats  on  many  prophetic  parts  of  the  Old  and  New  Testa- 
ment, with  great  labour,  perspicuity,  and  judgment;  but 
without  many  original  thoughts."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

S.  Origenis  Commentaria,  a  P.  Dan.  Huetio,  Gr.  et  Lat.  fol. 
Roth.  1668.  M  A  good  edition  of  what  remains  of  the  Com- 
mentaries of  Origen ;  rendered  still  more  valuable  by  the 
learned  Preface  of  Huet. — Origen  occupies  a  distinguished 
place  among  the  Primitive  Fathers  and  Doctors.  He  wrote 
much  on  the  Scriptures  :.  his  principal  works  are  unfortunately 
lost ;  many  of  his  Homilies  still  remain,  but  they  are  so  replete 
with  metaphorical  and  fanciful  interpretations  of  the  Sacred 
Text,  that  there  is  much  reason  to  believe  they  have  been 
corrupted  since  his  time.  (Dr.  A.  Clarke.) 
Of  this  writer  there  are  extant  in  Greek,  parts  of  Comment 


£'24  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

taries  on  Genesis,  Exodus,  Leviticus,  Joshua,  1  Samuel,  Psalms, 
Canticles,  Jeremiah,  Ezekiel,  Hosea,  in  the  Old  Testament  5 
and  on  Matthew.  John,  Acts,  Romans,  and  Hebrews,  in  the 
New.  In  Latin,  besides  his  Homilies  on  different  parts  of 
Scripture,  we  have  three  Books  of  Commentaries,  and  Scholia 
on  the  Book  of  Job. 

OJY  SELECT  PARTS  OF  THE  OLD  TESTA- 
MENT. 

*.'  Perhaps  the  most  ancient  Comments  containing  merely- 
verbal  glosses,  were  the  Chaldee  Paraphrases  or  Targums, 
particularly  those  of  Onkelos  on  the  Law,  and  Jonathan  on  the 
Prophets."    See  Note  (?/) Chap.  I.  Part.  I. 

•«The  Commentaries  of  Aben  Ezra,  a  justly  celebrated 
Spanish  Rabbin»  are  deservedly  esteemed  both  by  Jews  and 
Gentiles."  u  Rabbi  Maimonides  also  ranks  high  among  the 
Jewish  Commentators  :  his  work  entitled  Moreh  Nebochim  is 
a  very  excellent  illustration  of  some  of  the  most  difficult  words 
and  things  in  the  Sacred  Writings. — Rabbi  Kirachi  wrote  a 
very  useful  Comment  on  most  books  of  the  Old  Testament: 
his  Comment  on  Isaiah  is  peculiarly  excellent. — Rabbi  Levi 
ben  Gershom  wrote  some  esteemed  Comments  on  different 
parts  of  Scripture.  These  with  some  others  are  printed  in 
the  second  edition  of  Bomberg*s  Great  Bible,  Venice,  1547, 
&e.  2  vols.  fol.  the  most  useful,  and  the  most  valuable  Hebrew 
Bible  ever  published."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

The  Oral  Law  of  the  Jews,  called  the  Mischnah,  "is  a  pre- 
tended  Comment  on  the  five  books  of  Moses."—  Mischna» 
sive  totius  Hebrseorum  Juris,  Rituum,  Antiquitatum,  ac  Legum 
Oralium  Systema,  Heb.  et  Lat.  cum  Commentariis  Maimoni- 
dis,  Bartenorse,  et  aliorum.  Interprete,  Editore,  et  Notatore, 
Guil.  Surenhusio,  Amst.  1698,  6  vols.  fol.  "This  is  a  very 
beautiful,  correct,  and  well-edited  work,  necessary  to  the  li- 
brary of  every  biblical  critic  and  divine.    He  who  has  it,  need 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR  $25 

be  solicitious  for  nothing  more  on  this  subject."  Dr.  A. 
Clarke. 

The  Talmud,  is  a  Comment  on  the  Mischnah,  as  the 
Mischnah  is  upon  the  Law.  Of  these,  there  are  two,  the  Je- 
rusalem and  the  Babylonish  Talmud  :  the  former  was  printed 
fol.  Ven.  Dan,  Romberg,  sine  anno,  sed  circa  1523  ;  and  the 
latter,  with  Comments  by  Jarchi,  &c.  Ven.  D.  Bomberg.  fol. 
1520,  12  vols. 

*■  Ainsworth  on  the  Pentateuch,  Psalms,  and  Solomon's 
Songs  (fol.  1639.)  is  a  good  book,  full  of  very  valuable  Jewish 
learning ;  and  his  translation  is,  in  many  places,  to  be  pre- 
ferred to  our  own ;  especially  on  the  Psalms."  (Dr.  Dod- 
dridge.) "  He  was  an  excellent  Hebrew  Scholar,  and  made  a 
very  judicious  use  of  his  Rabinical  learning  in  his  comment, 
especially  on  the  five  books  of  Moses."    Dr.  A.  Clarke, 

Amesii  Lectiones  in  omnes  Psalmos  Davidis,  8vo.  Amstel. 
1636,  is  valuable  "  for  its  conciseness,  accurate  method,  and 
very  judicious  observations ;  '  opus  omnibus,  qui  pietatem  co- 
lunt,  ac  imprimis  verbi  ministris,  perutile.' "  Dr.  E.  Wil- 
liams. 

Blayney's  (Dr.  Benj.)  Translation  of  Jeremiah  and  Lamen- 
tions,  with  Notes  critical,  philological,  and  explanatory,  4to. 
1804,  and  8vo.  Edinb.  1810.  Dr.  E.  Williams,  speaking  of 
this,  and  the  similar  works  of  Lowth  and  Newcome,  says, 
"  they  are  of  the  same  nature,  and  may  be  consulted  with 
considerable  advantage,  as  they  include  a  new  translation,  and 
critical  notes." — "  The  present  author  follows  the  plan  of  the 
great  Prelate  (Bishop  Lowth,)  and  though  not  with  equal 
success,  yet  with  much  credit  both  as  a  translator  and  a  critic. 
The  translation  is  in  general  very  exact,  and  preserves  the 
tone  and  majesty  of  sacred  writing.  The  various  readings  are 
noticed  with  the  most  scrupulous  exactness :  critical  emenda- 
tion is  sometimes  hazarded,  but  not  rashly  or  injudiciously. 
The  preliminary  discourse  bespeaks  the  indulgence  of  the 
candid  reader,  in  such  a  manner  as  would  not  fail  procuring 

to*- 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

it,  even  though  the  work  for  which  it  is  solicited  were  less  en« 
titled  to  it  than  it  is,"     Month.  Rev  vol.  71.  p.  162. 

Blayney's  (Dr.  Benj.)  Translation  of  Zechariah,  with  Notes 
critical,  philological,  and  explanatory,  4to.  1797,  "  We  think 
it  our  duty  to  say,  that  Dr.  Blayney  has  produced  a  valuable 
illustration  of  Zechariah,  and  afforded  great  assistance  to  the 
Biblical  student."     Brit.  Crit.  vol.  13.  p.  655. 

"Burkius  (Phil.  David)  published  a  Commentary  on  the 
same  plan  as  Bengel's  Gnomon  Nov.  Test,  and  with  precisely 
the  same  title,  on  the  twelve  minor  Prophets,  4to.  Heilbron- 
nae,  1753,  which  was  followed  by  his  Gnomon  Psalmomm,  2 
vol.  4to.  Stutgardiae,  1760.  These  are,  in  many  respects, 
valuable  works,  written  in  a  pure  strain  of  piety,  but  rather 
too  much  in  a  technical  form."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"  Burroughs  on  Hosea,  4to.  Lond.  1652,  is  a  pleasing  speci- 
men, to  show  how  the  popular  preachers  of  his  time  applied 
the  Scriptures  to  the  various  cases  of  their  hearers,  in  their 
expository  exercises."     Dr.  E.  Wiliiams. 

"  Caryl's  Exposition,  with  practical  observations  upon  the 
book  of  Job,  2  vols.  fol.  Lond.  1776,  is  a  most  elaborate, 
learned,  judicious,  and  pious  work  ;  containing  a  rich  fund  of 
critical  and  practical  divinity."  (Dr.  E.  Williams.)  Caryl's 
Exposition  of  the  book  of  Job,  another  by  Scbultens,  and  a 
third  by  Chapelowe,  on  the  same  book,  contain  a  vast  deal  of 
important  matter  delivered  in  general,  by  the  two  latter,  in 
the  dullest  and  most  uninteresting  form."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Dickson's  brief  Explication  of  the  Psalms,  12mo.  1653,  is 
distinguished  "for  the  justness  and  fertility  of  its  observations." 
Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Franks'  (cf  Halifax)  Sacred  Literature,  or  Remarks  on  the 
look  of  Genesis;  &c.  Svo.  1302.  "  We  think  that  Mr.  F.  by 
his  selections,  has  added  considerably  to  the  helps  for  explain- 
ing the  Sacred  Writings,  and  that  his  book  may  be  very  ser- 
viceable to  those  whose  office  it  is  to  inculcate  the  knowledge 
Pf  fi.o  Scriptures,  ^of  only  <*s  it  may  assist  them  to  snrmoturt 


a  O  i  E3  BY  THE  THAN  SLA  1 OR,  2*7 

some  difficulties,  but  likewise  as  it  may  serve  to  point  out  to 
them,  some  useful  topics  of  instruction  to  be  drawn  from  dif- 
ferent texts."    Christian  Observer. 

Fuller's  (And.)  Expository  Discourses,  interspersed  with 
Practical  reflections,  2  vols.  8vo.  180G.  "  The  author  selects 
a  paragraph  of  convenient  length,  and  furnishes  a  concise  ex- 
position of  its  leading  circumstances,  accompanied  with  a  few 
practical  reflections,  and  occasionally  with  a  useful  criticism.— 
Much  originality  of  critical  remarks  must  not  be  expected  ;  but 
we  will  venture  to  promise,  much  more  frequently,  a  manly, 
judicious,  and  useful  train  of  observations,  expressed  in  simple 
and  vigorous  language."  (Eel.  Rev.  vol.  ii.  p.  896.)  "  There 
is  a  remarkable  unity  of  design  and  perspicuity  of  style,  which 
pervade  the  whole.— Many  of  the  suggestions  are  new,  yet 
they  are  so  natural  and  obvious,  that  the  reader  wonders  they 
have  not  occurred  to  him  before.  Mr.  Fuller  has  often  the 
happy  talent  of  elucidating  a  passage  by  a  single  hint.  We  think 
also  he  excels  in  delineating  characters,  and  dissecting  the 
human  heart ;  particular  instances  of  which  occur  in  his  expo- 
sition of  the  history  of  Joseph  and  his  brethren."  Evan.  Mag 
June,  1806. 

Goode's  (John  Mason)  Translation  of  the  Song  of  Songs, 
with  notes  critical  and  explanatory.  8vo.  1 803,  "  Were  we 
insensible  to  the  merits  of  this  truly  elegant  and  classical  pro- 
duction, we  should  lie  open  to  an  impeachment  of  our  taste." 
(Month.  Rev.)  "  The  arrangement  is  new  and  ingenious — 
the  translation  faithful  and  elegant — the  poetical  version  is  for 
the  most  part,  correct  and  beautiful — the  notes  are  full  of 
learning  and  good  taste."     Ann.  Rev.  vol.  2,  p.  120. 

"Greenham  on  Psalm  119,  in  his  works  fol.  Lond.  1681,  is 
admirable,  for  the  time  in  which  it  was  written,  both  for  mo» 
thod  and  style ;  and,  like  all  the  productions  of  this  author,  is 
foil  of  spiritual  unction."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Gill's,  (l)r,  John)  Exposition  of  the  Canticles  $  wherein,  the 


228  NOTES  BY  THE  I  RA.NSLAT  OK. 

authority  of  it  is  established  ;  several  versions  are  compared 
with  the  original  text ;  the  different  senses  both  of  Jewish  and 
Christian  interpreters  considered ;  and  the  whole  opened  and 
explained."  4th  edit.  2  vols.  8vo.  1805.  "  This  work,  and 
Harmer's  Oatlines  of  a  new  Commentary  on  Solomon's  Song, 
8vo.  Lond.  1768,  are  a  perfect  contrast  in  their  design  and 
execution.  The  former  is  a  minute  detail  on  the  allegorical 
sense,  and  a  spiritual  improvement ;  the  latter  consists  of  re- 
marks, observations,  and  queries,  with  a  view  to  ascertain  the 
literal  meaning."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"  Hammond's  Paraphrase  and  Annotations  on  the  Psalms, 
fol.  Lond.  1659,  is  of  use  chiefly  for  its  critical  hints."  Dr.  E. 
Williams. 

Hildersbam's  152  Lectures  on  Fsalm  51,  fol.  Lond.  1635, 
are  a  rich  mine  of  experimental  and  practical  divinity." 

Hopkins'  (Wm.)  Exodus :  a  corrected  Translation,  with 
Notes  critical  and  explanatory ;  4to.  1784.  "  The  translator 
hath  in  general  executed  his  task  with  fidelity,  and,  where  it 
could  be  done  with  propriety  (or  where  the  reading  of  the 
Samaritan •  copy  would  permit  it,)  he  'hath  adopted  (he 
says)  the  English  vulgar  translation,  in  order  to  prevent  any 
prejudices  that  might  he  infused  into  the  minds  of  the  com- 
mon people  by  uncharitable  bigots.'  "  Month.  Rev.  vol.  72. 
p.  412. 

Horseley's  (Bp.)  Translation  of  Hosea ;  with  Notes  expla- 
natory and  critical.  ({ This  translation,  with  its  notes,  forms 
a  most  valuable  accession  to  sacred  learning ;  and  evinces  at 
once  the  best  qualities  of  the  scholar  and  the  divine,  supported 
by  sagacity  and  a  powerful  judgment."  Brit.  Crit  vol.  ID, 
p.  78. 

Hodgson's  (Dr.  Bernard)  Translation  of  Solomon's  Song, 
4to.  1785.  "  Dr.  Hodgson  enters  into  no  disputes  concerning 
the  mystical  sense  in  which  the  poem  has  been  interpreted  ;  he 
X>urposely  avoids  them.  Dr.  K.  has  translated  the  poem  with 
correctness  and  propriety.   The  simplicity  of  the  ancient  man- 


NOTES  BY  Tftfi  TRAIN  SLATO».  229 

Eiers  is  preserved,  while  in  many  passages  the  sense  is  eluci- 
dated, and  the  connexion  pointed  out  hy  recurring  to  the  ori- 
ginal. In  the  notes,  the  translator  has  explained  the  reasons 
of  his  variations  from  the  common  translations ;  he  has  ad- 
duced also  parallel  passages  from  ancient  authors."  Crit.  Rev. 
vol.  62.  p.  424. 

Hodgson's  (Dr.  Bernard)  Translation  of  the  Proverbs  of 
Solomon,  with  Notes,  4to.  Oxon.  1788. 

Hodgson's  (Dr.  B.)  Translation  of  Ecclesiastes.  1790. 

Home's  Commentary  on  the  Book  of  Psalms,  2  vols.  Svo.2 
vols.  4to.  Oxon.  1776,  and  3  vols.  12mo.  "  The  notes,"  says 
Br.  A.  Clarke,  "  breathe  a  spirit  of  the  purest  and  most  ex- 
alted piety." 

•■  Houbigantii  Biblia  Hebraic»,  cum  Notis  criticis,  et  Ver- 
sione  Latina  ad  Notas  criticas  facta ;  accedunt  libri  Grseci  qui 
vocantur  Deutero-Canonici.  Lut.  Parisiorum,  1753,  4  torn, 
fol.  "  This  is  a  work  of  great  importance  to  the  biblical  critic, 
Father  Houbigant  has  corrected  and  reformed  the  present  He* 
brew  text,  according  to  the  Sarmaritan,  Syriac,  Chaldee,  Sep- 
tuagint,  ancient  editions  of  the  Hebrew  Bible,  and  ancient 
Hebrew  M.  S.  S.  His  Latin  version  is  allowed  to  be  clear, 
elegant,  and  energetic.  Each  book  is  preceded  by  a  learned 
and  judicious  preface,  and  the  critical  notes  are  both  judicious 
and  concise. — M  He  was  a  consummate  Hebraician  and  an  ac- 
curate critic :  even  his  conjectural  emendations  of  the  Text 
cast  much  light  on  many  obscure  passages  ;  and  not  a  few  of 
them  have  been  confirmed  by  the  M.  S.  collections  of  Ken- 
nioott  and  De  Rossi."  "  Some  have  indeed  supposed,  that  he 
lias  indulged  himself  in  conjectural  criticism  too  far,  white 
others  think  he  has  restrained  himself  within  due  bounds;  but, 
on  all  hands,  his  labours  are  allowed  to  be  invaluable."  Dr. 
A.  Clarke.  ' 

"  Hutcheson's  Brief  Exposition  on  the  Smaller  Prophets. 
i2mo.  Lond.  1655,  deserves  the  same  character  as  the  author's 
other  work  on  Job."     Dr.  E.  Williams. 

u Hutchinson's  F.vposition  of  the  hook  of  Job.  fol.  T<ono\ 


230  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

1669,  "is  the  sum  of  above  300  expository  lectures,  preached 
at  Edinburgh,  and  a  work  of  considerable  merit.  His  method 
is  perspicuous,  and  his  observations  founded  on  the  text  are  ju- 
dicious and  profitable."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Lawson's  Discourses  on  the  book  of  Esther,  &c.  12mo.  2d 
Edit.  1809.  "Dr.  L.'s  great  excellence  consists  in  the  abun- 
dance, variety,  and  justness  of  his  sentiment ;  in  the  unex- 
pected manner  in  which  that  sentiment  is  frequently  intro- 
duced ;  and  in  the  conciseness  of  his  illustrations,  remarkable 
artlessness  of  manner,  unaffected  earnestness,  piety,  and 
benevolence,  which  appear  in  every  page,  &c."  Eel.  Rcv> 
vol.  1.  p.  684. 

Lawson's  Lectures  on  the  book  of  Ruth,  &c.  12mo.  1805. 
(t  This  volume  presents  the  same  marked  peculiarities  with 
the  Discourses  of  Esther,  and  confirms  the  author's  title  to  the 
commendation  we  bestowed.  A  large  fund  of  sentiment» 
naturally  drawn  from  the  subject  and  happily  applied ; 
language  perfectly  unadorned,  but  sufficiently  expressive  ; 
earnestness  to  produce  the  best  impressions,  and  to  turn  every 
thing  to  a  practical  use,  appear  in  every  page.  Dr.  L.  enters 
fully  into  the  spirit  of  the  subject  which  he  discusses,  and  ap- 
pears susceptible  of  all  that  tenderness  and  unaffected  benevo- 
lence which  this  beautiful  portion  of  history  so  admirably  de- 
scribes."   Eel.  Rev.  vol.  3,  p.  479. 

Lowth's  (Bp.)  Isaiah  ;  with  a  preliminary  Dissertation  ;  and 
Notes  critical,  philological  and  explanatory.  2  vols.  8vo.  1807. 
"The  preliminary  Dissertation  contains  a  fund  of  rare  and 
judicious  criticism.  The  translation  formed  by  the  assistance 
of  the  ancient  Versions,  collated  with  the  best  M.  S.  S.  of  the 
Hebrew  Text,  is  clear,  simple,  and  yet  dignified.  The  con- 
cluding Notes,  which  always  show  a  profound  knowledge  of  He° 
brew  criticism,  are  always  judicious,  and  generally  useful." 
Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Macculloch's  Lectures  on  the  prophecies  of  Isaiah,  4  vol. 
8vo.  "The  author  has  stated  with  plainness  what  has  ap^ 
peared  to  him  the  precise  mea'ninpr  of  hfe  text,  and,  in  genera^ 


'NOTES  BV  THE  TRANSLATOR.  231 

his  judgments  concerning  it  seems  to  be  correct."    Religious 
Monitor,  1805. 

Macgowan's  Discourses  on  Ruth,  §vo.  Lond.  1781. — Dr.  E* 
Williams'  List. 

"  Manton  on  Psalm  119,  is  voluminous,  in  general  judicious, 
plain,  not  very  interesting  in  his  manner,  yet  unaffected."  Dr. 
E.  Williams. 

"  Mollerl  Enarrationes  Psalmorum  Davidis,  fol.  Genevse, 
1619,  form  a  judicious  explication  ;  but  the  work  is  rather  de- 
ficient in  practical  improvements."     Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Newcomer's  (Bishop)  Translation  of  Ezekiel,  4to. ;  and  of 
the  Minor  Prophets,  8vo.  1809.  "  Newcome's  translation 
ha3  learned  Notes :  it  is  a  good  work,  but  creeps  slowly  after 
its  great  predecessor,  (Bp.  Lowth's  Isaiah.")    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"  Newton's  (Sir  Isaac)  Observations  upon  the  Prophecies 
of  Daniel,  4to.  Lond.  1733,  contain  some  very  valuable  hints." 
Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"Owen's  Practical  Exposition  on  Psalm  130,  4to.  Lond. 
1G80,  and  since  in  8vo.  is  a  most  excellent  work  on  repentance 
and  forgiveness,  and  enters  deeply  into  several  parts  of  expe- 
rimental religion."  (Dr.  E.  Williams.)  "  Owen's  Exposition 
of  the  130th  Psalm  is  most  excellent."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

Patrick's  Comment,  from  Genesis  to  Canticles,  3  vols, 
u  He  has  made  use  of  many  former  writers,  some  Jewish  and 
others  Christian."  (Dr.  Doddridge.)  Dr.  W.  Lowth's  Com- 
mentary on  all  the  Prophets,  is  usually  added  to  this  work  to 
complete  it;  and  Dr.  A.  Clarke,  speaking  of  both  these  wri- 
ters, remarks,  that  they  are  always  judicious  and  solid." 
"  Lowth,"  says  Dr.  Doddridge,  *'  has  compiled  a  judicious 
Commentary  on  the  Prophets,  from  Isaiah  to  Malachi ;  in 
which  there  are  some  good  critical  notes,  and  a  fine  collection 
of  parallels." 

Percy's  (Bp,)  Translation  of  the  Song  of  Solomon,  with  a 
Commentary  and  Annotations,  8vo.  1764, 

Scott's  (the  Dissenting  Minister)  book  of  Job,  in  English 
ferae  ;  translated  from  the  original  Hebrew  ;  with  Remarks., 


232  2*0TK.S  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

historical,  critical,  and  explanatory.  8vo.  2d  edit.  1773.  "Tins 
performance  recommends  itself  to  the  public  in  a  double  ca- 
pacity ;  as  a  translation  of  the  book  of  Job,  and  as  a  learned 
and  elaborate  commentary  on  that  valuable  but  difficult  part 
of  the  Old  Testament.  The  happiest  translators  of  the  poeti- 
cal parts  of  Scripture  have  not  succeeded  entirely  to  their 
wishes,  so  as  to  come  up  to  the  spirit  and  dignity  of  the  origi- 
nal ;  and  therefore  it  is  not  a  matter  of  surprise  that  this 
should  be,  in  some  measure,  the  case  with  Mr.  Scott;  more 
particularly  as  he  has  confined  himself  in  general  to  a  close 
and  exact  version  of  the  book  of  Job.  We  do  not  mean  here- 
by to  derogate  from  Mr.  Scott's  merit,  which  is  considerable0 
He  hath  undoubtedly  taken  great  pains  to  do  justice  to  his  au- 
thor.— The  second  view  in  which  the  work  before  us  is  to  be 
considered,  is  as  a  Commentary ;  and  here  it  appears  to  no 
small  advantage.  Mr.  Scott  is  well  qualified  for  this  part  of 
the  undertaking,  by  his  great  knowledge  of  the  Oriental  Lan- 
guages, his  diligent  study  of  the  original,  and  his  complete 
acquaintance  with  the  best  critics."  Month.  Rev.  vol.  66, 
p.  555. 

Smith's  (Miss  Elizabeth)  Translation  of  the  Book  of  Job: 
with  a  Preface  and  Annotations  by  Dr.  F.  Randolph,  8vo0 
1810.  The  learned  Dr.  Magee  considers  this  work  as  "  con- 
veying more  of  the  true  character  and  meaning  of  the  He- 
brew, with  fewer  departures  from  the  Idiom  of  the  English^ 
than  any  other  translation  whatever  that  we  possess."'—4'  Sc 
far,"  sajs  Dr.  Randolph,  "as  a  diligent  and  accurate  compa- 
rison of  this  translation,  partially  or  wholly,  with  almost  every 
other  extant,  at  least  with  all  I  could  procure  or  read,)  may 
entitle  me  to  make  the  assertion,  1  scruple  not  to  pronounce 
it  to  be,  upon  the  whole,  more  clear  and  satisfactory,  more 
grammatically  accurate,  more  closely  expressive  of  the  literal 
meaning,  and  (though  preserving  a  native  lustre  of  its  own) 
more  distinctly  reflecting  the  brightness  of  its  glorious  original, 
than  any  which  have  fallen  under  my  observation. 

Smith's  (Dr,  J.)  Summary  View  and  Explanation  of  the 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

Writings  of  the  Prophets.  It  contains,  1st,  Preliminary  Ob» 
servations  and  General  Rules  for  understanding  the  Prophetic 
Style  :  2d.  A  particular  account  of  each  Book  and  Chapter, 
as  they  lie  in  Order ;  in  which  the  style  of  each  Prophet  is 
characterized  ;  the  beauty  and  sublimity  of  particular  passages 
remarked  ;  the  change  of  persons  or  speakers,  the  transition 
from  one  part  of  a  subject  to  another,  and  the  connexion  and 
scope  of  the  whole  pointed  out ;  improvements  on  the  transla- 
tion, where  they  seem  to  be  of  most  consequence,  taken  no- 
tice of;  with  illustrations  of  the  customs,  manners,  and  cir- 
cumstances to  which  the  Sacred  Writers  occasionally  allude, 
and  the  application  of  their  prophecies  to  those  events  to  which 
they  are  supposed  to  refer."-— "  Such  is  the  author's  account 
of  his  own  work,  which  was  originally  compiled  to  accompany 
a  Gaelic  translation  of  the  Prophetic  Writings,  and  was  after- 
wards translated  into  English  by  the  author  himself;  in  which 
we  conceive  he  has  rendered  an  essential  service  to  those  who 
cannot  purchase,  or  perhaps  fully  understand,  the  learned  and 
expensive  volumes  of  Bishops  Lowth,  Blayney,  Newcome, 
Newton,  Dr.  Kennicott,  and  others,  to  which  he  freely  ac- 
knowledges his  obligations,  and  of  which  the  small  volume  be- 
fore us  may  be  considered  as  a  judicious  and  valuable  compen- 
dium.    Evan.  Mag  vol.  13.  p.  319. 

"  Stock's  Commentary  and  Torshell's  Exercitation  on  Ma- 
lachi,  fol.  Lond.  1641,  is  a  work  recommended  by  Bishop  Wil- 
kins  as  the  best ;  but  the  matter  is  much  better  than  the  man- 
ner."   Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Venema  (Herman)  is  known  only  to  me  by  a  Comment  on 
Malachi — and  a  most  excellent  and  extensive  Commentary  on 
the  Psalms,  in  C  vols.  4to.  Leovardiae,  1762-7.  Through  its 
great  scarcity,  the  work  is  little  known  in  great  Britain.  What 
was  said  by  David  of  Goliah's  sword,  has  been  said  of  Vene- 
ma's  Commentary  on  the  Book  of  Psalms ;  "There  is  none 
like  it."    Dr.  A.Clarke. 

20 


S3*  i\(JTES  BY  THE  TKANiiLATOK. 

Vitringx  Commentarius  in  librum  prophetiarum  Iesaise, 
2  vols.  fol.  «  The  best  edition  of  which  was  printed  in  1724. 
"  A  learned  and  most  excellent  Commentary."  Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Williams'  Translation  of  Solomon's  Song,  with  a  Commeiv 
tary,  Notes,  and  Dissertations,  8vo,  1801.  "  Of  the  translation, 
the  author  will  only  say,  that  it  has  been  written  several  years, 
and  repeatedly  revised,  with  every  assistance  that  conld  be 
derived  from  books  or  literary  friends.  The  critical  Note? 
are  selected  from  Ainsworth,  Bochart,  Durell,  Doderlein,  Gill, 
Gray,  Karmer,  Hodgson,  Lowth,  Michaelis,  Parkhurst,  Pat- 
rick, Percy,  Poole,  and  others,  with  some  originals ;  and  are 
intended  with  as  much  brevity  as  possible  to  justify  the  new 
translation  ;  and  to  ascertain  the  literal  sense  and  exact  im- 
port of  the  figurative  language  ;  in  order  to  which,  particular 
attention  has  been  paid  to  the  use  of  similar  images  in  the 
Eastern  poets.  The  Commentary  is  on  a  new  plan  ;  instead 
of  taking  every  verse,  or  distinct  member  of  the  verse,  sepa- 
rately, as  has  been  usually  done,  the  author  takes  it  in  con« 
nected  paragraphs,  presents  whole  images,  (not  broken  and 
detached  pieces)  to  the  reader's  view,  and  then  endeavours 
to  improve  them  by  a  chaste  and  scriptural  application  of 
the  allegory  to  diviue  and  spiritual  objects. — The  Disserta- 
tions have  two  principal  objects  :  f.  To  trace,  from  the  origin 
of  language  itself,  the  use  of  metaphorical  terms,  and  thence 
the  rise  of  poetry  and  allegory,  which  will  introduce  remarks 
on  the  nature  of  the  Hebrew  language,  poetry,  and  music.  2. 
The  object  is  to  examine  the  nature  and  design  of  Solomon's 
Song,  and  more  particularly  to  vindicate  its  divine  authority 
and  allegorical  application,  as  well  against  the  objections  of 
the  learned,  as  of  the  illiterate." — f  Mr  T.  Williams'  work 
is  a  great  improvement  on  similar  attempts."  Dr.  E.  Wil- 
liams. 

"  Willet's  Hexapla  on  Daniel,  fol.  1610,  is  a  work  of  much 
information,  as  it  contains  the  opinions  of  many  authors  on 
eaefc  point  of  difficulty,    Thb  author  has  written  comments 


.NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

on  Genesis,  Exodus,  Leviticus,  Samuel,  Romans,  Jude,  and 
some  detached  parts  of  books :  but  in  none  does  he  discover 
more  skill  and  judgment  than  in  the  present  work."  Dr.  E. 
Williams. 

Wintle's  Translation  of  the  Book  of  Daniel ;  with  a  preli- 
minary Dissertation,  and  Notes  critical,  historical,  and  expla- 
natory, 2d  edit.  4to.  1807. 

ON  SELECT  PARTS  OF  THE  NEW 
TESTAMENT. 

n  Anselmi  Commentaria  in  Evangelia  in  omnes  Pauli  Epis- 
tolas,  &c.  fol.  1560,  (if  you  except  some  of  his  catholic  notions, 
and  his  allegorical  and  mystical  paragraphs)  will  afford  plea- 
sure and  improvement."     Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Blair's  (Jas  )  Discourses  on  Matt.  v. — vii.  u  A  man  of 
plain  good  sense.  A  beautiful  simplicity  and  great  seriousness 
run  through  all  his  writings.  A  desire  to  spare  all  unneces- 
sary words  is  very  apparent.  His  Commentary  on  Matt,  v.— 
vii.  is  the  best  extant.  He  has  some  excellent  and  striking  si- 
milies  which  are  chiefly  taken  from  the  affairs  of  the  slaves, 
planters,  or  foreign  colonies.  He  suggests  a  multitude  of  ex- 
cellent things  which  he  does  not  prosecute  at  large.  He  has 
an  excellent  way  of  bringing  down  criticisms  to  common  ca- 
pacities; and  has  discovered  a  vast  knowledge  of  Scripture  in 
the  suitable  application  of  them.'5'     Dr.  Doidridge. 

Brewster's  Lectures  on  the  Acts  of  the  Apostles ;  illustra- 
ted with  Maps,  2  vols.  1807.  "The  facts  and  events  are  nar- 
rated in  a  manner  well  suited  to  engage  the  attention  of  the 
congregation,  to  whom  he  delivered  them. — The  reflections 
which  he  liberally  intersperses,  arise  naturally  from  the  sub- 
ject ;  they  might  sometimes  have  been  more  explicit  in  point 
of  doctrine,  but  they  are  calculated  to  impress  the  history  ef- 
fectually on  the  mind,  and  to  render  that  impression  benefi- 
cial. There  is  little  criticism  in  the  work.  EcL  Rev.  vol.  3* 
p.  408. 


260  NOTES  P>\  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

"Burgess*  Expository  Sermons  on  John  xvii.  fol.  Lond. 
1056,  are  full  of  sound  doctrine,  methodically  arranged,  and 
closely  applied  in  very  plain  language."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"Burgess*  Expository  Comment  on  2  Cor.  i.  fol.  Loud. 
1661,  deserves  the  same  character  as  bis  woik  on  John  xvii." 
Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"  Byfield  on  the  Epistle  to  the  Colossians,  fol.  Lond.  1627, 
is  full  of  good  sense  and  spiritual  savour,  and  abounds  with 
pertinent  citations  of  Scripture,  without  any  pretensions  to 
oratorical  dress."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Campbell's  translation  of  the  four  Gospels,  with  prelimina- 
ry Dissertations,  and  Notes  critical  and  explanatory.  "  The 
distinctions  of  chapters  and  verses  are  retained  in  the  margin, 
for  the  sake  of  references.  The  new  division  is  into  sections 
and  paragraphs  ;  each  section  is,  on  an  average,  equal  to  two 
chapters,  and  each  paragraph  is  determined  by  the  sense. 
The  elliptical  words  supplied,  are  included  in  crotchets,  and 
the  narrative  is  distinguished  from  the  interlocutory  parts  by 
Italics,  for  reasons  which  do  not  on  the  whole,  we  think,  even 
counterbalance  the  bad  effects  of  its  appearance.  In  the  side 
margin,  besides  the  old  division,  into  chapters  and  verses,  the 
parallel  passages  in  Scripture  are  added :  at  the  foot  of  the 
pages  are  the  short  explanations,  which  do  not  require  criti- 
cism or  argument,  for  notes  of  that  kind  are  added  at  the  end, 
and  they  are  either  explanatory  or  philological  Scholastic 
disputes,  and  some  peculiar  delicate  difficulties  our  author  pur- 
poses to  avoid."  (Crit.  Rev.)  "  I  have  revised  the  first  eigh- 
teen chapters  of  Matthew,  and  am  really  astonished  at  the 
learning  and  accuracy  of  the  author"  (Dr.  Beattie.)  u  It 
abounds  in  sound  judgment,  deep  erudition,  and  a  strong  vein 
of  correct  critical  acumen."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

"Cradock's  Apostolical  History,  fol.  Lond.  1672,  contains 
the  acts,  labours,  travels,  sermons,  &c.  of  the  Apostles ;  with 
a  brief  analytical  paraphrase  of  their  epistles."  Dr.  E.  Wil- 
liams 


NOTES  B  Y  THE  TR  \NSLATOR.  *3f 

u  Davenant  on  Colossians,  fol.  Latin,  is  much  esteemed." 
Dr.  E.  Williams. 

(i  Daubuz's  Perpetual  Commentary  on  the  Revelation,  fol. 
Lond.  1720,  is  a  most  elaborate  work,  abounding  with  learned 
references  and  illustrath  e  quotations  from  the  ample  store  of  li- 
terature. This  great  work  has  been  new-mod^iied  and  abridged 
by  Mr.  Lancaster,  4to.  Lond.  1730."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Dick's  Lectures  on  parts  of  the  first  fifteen  chapters  of  the 
Acts  of  the  Apostles,  1805.  f*  Upon  the  whole,  we  cheerfully 
recommend  the  present  volume  to  the  attention  of  the  public." 
Eel.  Rev.  vol.  2  p.  440. 

Ellesly's  Annotations  on  the  four  Gospels,  compiled  and 
abridged  for  the  use  of  students  "  \ltogether,  we  say,  with- 
out the  smallest  reserve,  we  never  saw  a  book  more  admira- 
bly adapted  for  the  use  of  students,  more  creditable  to  an  au- 
thor's sagacity,  diligence,  and  erudition,  or  more  likely  to 
make  the  investigation  of  the  New  Testament  easy  and  agree- 
able."    Brit.  Orit.  vol.  16.  p.  236. 

"Elton  on  Rom.  vii  — ix.  fol  Lond.  1653,  is  a  work  rich  in 
matter,  dressed  in  the  plain  and  somewhat  popular  language 
of  its  day."     Dr  E.  Williams. 

**  Elton  on  the  Colossians,  fol.  is  nearly  on  the  same  plan  as 
his  work  on  Rom  vii.— ix  and  of  similar  character."  Dr.  E. 
Williams 

"  Ferguson's  Brief  Expositions  of  the  Epistle  to  the  Gala- 
tians  and  Ephesians,  12mo  Lond.  1659,  abound  with  pertinent 
observations  deduced  from  the  text,  considered  in  its  proper 
connexion ;  and  in  a  method  almost  peculiar  to  the  Scotch  di- 
vines of  the  last  century."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"  Gualtheri  Horailise  in  Acra  Apostolorum,  8vo,  Lugduni, 
1562,  contains  173  Homilies ;  sound,  methodical,  and  elegant." 
Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"  Hall's  Commentary  on  2  Tim.  fol.  Lond  1658,  is  recom- 
mended by  Calamy,  whose  imprimatur  it  bears,  as  '  both  ela- 
borate and  judicious.'    He  was  minister  of  King's  Norton,  ia 


NDTES  BY  1  HK  TRANSLATOR 

Worcestershire  ;  and  Dr.  Calamy  adds,  that  this  c  Commenta- 
ry is  the  sum  of  nigh  30  years'  study."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"  Hardy  on  1  John,  4to.  Lond.  1656,  is  an  unequal  work ; 
but  the  author,  in  some  places,  discovers  a  superior  degree  of 
penetration.  The  same  character  may  be  given  to  his  Expo- 
sition of  the  Epistle  to  Philemon."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Hawkins*  (Thos.)  Commentary  on  the  Epistles  of  St.  John, 
8vo.  1808.  "The  author  acknowledges  he  had  no  intention 
of  writing  for  scholars ;  but  seems  to  have  engaged  in  this  un- 
dertaking with  the  very  laudable  design  of  promoting  among 
real  Christians,  a  devout  feeling  of  love  to  God,  and  a  spirit  of 
mutual  sympathy,  forgiveness,  and  benevolence.  His  doc- 
trinal views  are  Calvinistie ;  but  not  chargeable  with  Antino- 
mian  perversion."    Eel.  Rev.  vol.  5.  p.  846. 

Hildersham's  Lectures  on  John  iv.  fol.  Lond.  1632,  discover 
the  author  to  be  a  sound  divine,  an  admirable  textuary,  a  pro- 
foundly experienced  Christian,  and  an  excellent  teacher,"  Dr, 
B.  Williams. 

Johnstone's  (Dr.  Bryce)  Commentary  on  the  Revelation  of 
St.  John,  2d  edit.  2  vols.  8vo.  1807.  "  It  is  a  work  well  cal- 
culated for  general  use,  being  written  with  great  perspicuity, 
and  in  a  popular,  practical  strain."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Leighton's  Commentary  on  the  first  epistle  of  St.  Peter, 
with  the  Prelections.  2  vols.  8vo.  1 804.  "  These,"  says  Dr. 
E.  Williams,  M are  productions  of  uncommon  worth:  all  this 
author's  works  are  full  of  holy  simplicity,  humility,  and  bene- 
volent zeal." — "  As  to  Archbishop  Leighton,  besides  his  se- 
lect works  there  are  two  octavo  volumes  published  at  Edin* 
burgh,  in  1748,  and  since  reprinted  at  London.  They  contain 
a  valuable  Commentary  on  St.  Peter's  First  Epistle,  and  Lec- 
tures on  Isa,  vi.  Psal.  xxxix.,  exxx.,  iv.,  and  a  part  of  Rom. 
xii.  He  has  wonderfully  united  the  simplicity  of  the  gospel, 
with  all  the  captivating  beauties  of  style  and  language.  Bishop 
Burnet  says,  he  was  the  greatest  master  of  the  Latin  tongue 
he  ever  knev,  of  which,  together  with  his  compass  of  learn» 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  £39 

iiig,  he  has  given  proof  in  his  Lectures :  yet  in  his  gayer  dress^ 
his  eminent  humility  and  spirituality  appear  to  no  less  advan- 
tage than  when  clad  in  plain  English.  I  think  his  Preelections 
may  be  said  to  be  a  diamond  set  in  gold.  I  could  wish  them 
translated,  if  it  were  possible,  (which  I  should  almost  ques- 
tion,) to  preserve  the  beauty  and  spirit  of  the  original."  New- 
ton's Cardiphonia,  vol.  2.  p.  114. — "  His  works  ought  to  be  reck- 
oned among  the  greatest  treasures  of  the  English  tongue: 
they  continually  overflow  with  love  to  God,  and  breathe  a 
heart  entirely  transformed  by  the  gospel  above  the  views  of 
every  thing  but  pleasing  God.  There  is  a  vast  deal  of  spirit 
and  charming  imagination,  multitudes  of  the  most  beautiful 
figures,  and  Scriptures  applied  with  happiest  allusions ;  upon 
the  whole  they  are  such  as  none  but  a  very  ingenious,  learned, 
religious  man  could  write,  and  yet  even  by  such  a  one  must 
have  been  written  with  great  care ; — not  the  effect  of  any  la- 
borious efforts  for  particular  discourses,  but  the  guarded  over- 
flowing of  a  copious  fountain."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

Lowman's  Paraphrase  and  Notes  on  the  Revelation  of  St, 
John,  4th  edit.  8vo.  1307.  "Bishops  Hurd,  Halifax,  Clayton, 
and  others,  have  written  with  ability  upon  these  abstruse  parts 
of  sacred  Writ.  Dr.  Arpthorp,  Maclaurin,  and  Brown,  have 
thrown  pretty  much  light  upon  them.  But  of  all  who  have 
treated  upon  the  book  of  Revelation,  none  seem  to  me  to  have 
excelled  Lowman."  (Simpson's  Plea.)  (i  I  can  with  plea- 
sure refer  my  reader  to  the  learned  commentary  on  this  book, 
lately  published  by  the  Rev.  Mr.  Lowman,  from  which  I  have 
received  more  satisfaction,  with  respect  to  many  of  its  difficul- 
ties, than  ever  I  found  elsewhere,  or  expected  to  have  found 
at  all."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

Luther's  Commentary  on  St.  Paul's  Epistle  to  the  Galatian3? 
with  life,  1  vol.  8vo.  and  2  vols.  12mo.  "Luther's  Commen- 
tary on  the  Epistle  to  the  Galatians  was  his  favourite  work. " 
(Jortin.)  "  It  is  a  strong  antidote  against  the  popish  notion 
of  justification  by  vorks"    Dr,  William?. 


240  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

Macknight's  Harmony  of  the  four  Gospels,  in  which  the 
order  of  each  is  preserved  ;  with  a  Paraphrase  and  Notes,  2 
toIs.  8vo.  1804.  This  and  the  following  work  are  in  the  Bi- 
shop of  Lincoln's  list.  "  It  has  long  been  a  standard  book 
among  Divines."     Rrit.  Crit. 

Macknight's  literal  Translation  of  all  the  Apostolical  Epis- 
tles ;  with  a  Commentary  and  Notes,  philological,  critical,  ex- 
planatory, and  practical,  "  Dr.  Macknight's  luminous  and 
valuable  Commentary  on  the  Apostolical  Epistles  is  a  work 
highly  meriting  a  place  in  the  library  of  every  Chistian  Di- 
vine." (Parkhurst.)  Speaking  of  this  in  union  with  Dr. 
Campbell's  Translation  of  the  Gospels,  Dr.  A.  Clarke  says, 
— "  They  abound  in  sound  judgment,  deep  erudition,  and  a 
strong  vein  of  correct  critical  acumen." 

"  Manton  on  John  xvii.  fol.  is  a  sound  and  elaborate  work ; 
and,  to  those  who  can  improve  excellent  thoughts  abstracted 
from  modern  modes  of  composition,  a  rich  treasure."  (Dr. 
E.  Williams.)  "  Manton  is  plain,  easy,  and  unaffected.  His 
thoughts  are  generally  well  digested,  but  there  is  seldom  any 
thing  extraordinary.  He  has  many  judicious  remarks  on  Scrip- 
ture.   His  chief  work  is  on  the  119th  Psalm."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

"  Manton's  Exposition  of  James,  4to.  Lond.  is  plain,  solid, 
and  practical."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Markii  Sylloge  Dissertationum  Philologico-Theologicaruro, 
ad  Selectos  quosdam  textus  Novi  Testamenti,  4to.  Rotter. 
1721,  contains  twenty-five  learned  Dissertations  on  select  pas- 
sages, the  most  important,  difficult,  and  controverted."  Dr. 
E.  Williams. 

"  Mede's  Clavis  Apocalyptica,  with  his  Comraentarius  ad 
amussim  Clavis  Apocalypticse,  included  in  his  works,  fol. 
Lond.  1672,  3d  edit,  has  ever  been  considered  as  a  rich  mine, 
of  which  all  subsequent  learned  commentators  have  made  free 
and  good  use."  (Dr.  E.  Williams.)  "  Mede  has  a  good  many 
original  thoughts,  not  to  be  found  any  where  else.  His  writings 
on  the  Revelations  are  peculiarly  famous,  but  his  Diatribe  will 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  24i 

best  reward  a  diligent  perusal ;  yet  here  many  mistakes  will 
be  found."    Dr.  Doddridge. 

cs  Mitchell's  New  Exposition  of  the  Revelation  of  St.  John, 
gives  a  new  translation  from  the  original  Greek,  and  professes 
to  apply  the  events  that  have  occurred  to  the  letter  and  con- 
text of  the  prophecy',  in  a  manner  more  satisfactory  than  has 
been  done  by  former  commentators."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

"Newton's  (Sir  Isaac)  observations  on  the  Apocalypse,  4to. 
Lond.  1735,  being  the  second  part  of  his  Observations  on  Pro- 
phecies, is  not  an  exposition  so  much  as  hints.  *  If  I  have 
done  any  thing  which  may  be  useful  to  following  writers,'  ob- 
serves this  great  man,  'I  have  my  design.  The  folly  of  in- 
terpreters bus  been  to  fortel  times  and  things  by  this  Prophe- 
cy, as  if  God  designed  to  make  them  prophets.  By  this  rash- 
ness, they  have  not  only  exposed  themselves,  but  brought  tfiV 
Prophecy  also  into  contempt.'  "    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Owen's  Exposition  of  the  Epistle  to  the  Hebrews,  with  the 
Preliminary  Exercitations.  4  vols.  fol.  "  It  is  not  easy  to  give 
a  full  account  of  the  value  and  usefulness  of  this  work  :  it  is 
filled  with  a  great  variety  of  learning,  particularly  Rabbinical, 
which  he  has  made  serviceable  to  give  light  into  the  subject 
matter,  chiefly  treated  of  in  this  Epistle ;  and  withal  he  has 
taken  care  to  adapt  his  exposition  to  the  faith  and  comfort  of 
Christians,  and  to  recommend  the  practice  of  the  substantial 
duties  of  religiqn  ;  so  that  it  is  hard  to  say  whether  the  scholar 
or  the  divine  shine  the  more  brightly  through  this  excellent 
work.  Besides  the  exposition,  there  are  very  learned  and  ac- 
curate exercitations  which  serve  to  illustrate  many  difficult 
parts  of  Scripture."     Dr.  Erasmus  Middleton. 

"  Parr's  Exposition  of  the  Epistle  to  the  Romans,  fol.  Lond. 
1651,  is  equally  remarkable  for  soundness  of  sentiment,  fami- 
liarity of  illustration,  and  waut  of  taste  in  style  and  composi- 
tion."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Pearce's  (Bishop)  Commentary  and  Notes  on  the  Four 
Gospels,  the  Acts,  and  the  first  Epistle  to  the  Corinthians,  S 
21 


242  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

vols.  4to.  1777.  Dr.  A.  Clarke  says— "The  deep  learning 
and  judgment  displayed  in  these  notes,  are  really  beyond  all 
praise." — <c  Locke,  Pearce,  and  Benson  make  up  a  complete 
commentary  on  the  Epistles ;  and  are  indeed  all  in  the  num- 
ber of  the  most  ingenious  commentators  I  have  ever  read. 
They  plainly  thought  very  closely,  and  attended  much  to  con- 
nexion, which  they  have  often  set  in  a  most  clear  view.  But 
they  all  err  in  too  great  a  fondness  for  new  interpretations, 
and  in  supposing  the  design  of  the  apostle  less  general  than  it 
seems  to  have  been.  It  must  be  allowed  that  Benson  illus- 
trates the  spirit  of  Paul  sometimes  in  an  admirable  manner, 
even  beyond  any  former  writer.  See  especially  his  epistle  to 
Philemon.  His  vast  fondness  for  Lord  Barrington's  notions, 
has  often  proved  a  snare  to  him,  both  here  and  in  his  work  on 
the  Acts;  which  however  is  a  very  useful  piece."  (Dr.  Dod- 
dridge.) "  Mr.  Locke  and  Dr.  Benson  are  well  known  in  the 
republic  of  letters  :  their  respective  works  on  different  parts 
of  the  New  Testament,  abound  with  judgment  and  learning." 
Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

c<  Perkin's  Commentary  on  the  Epistle  to  the  Galatians  (in 
his  works)  is  equally  sound  as  Luther  on  this  Epistle,  but 
more  methodical  and  comprehensive.  Perkins  has  written 
Commentaries  also  on  Matt.  v. — vii  Heb.  xi.  the  Epistle  of 
Jude;  Rom.  i. — Hi.  all  contained  in  his  works,  S  vols.  fol.  Lond. 
1635."    Dr.E.  Williams. 

"  Shepard's  Exposition  of  Matt.  xxv.  i.— 13.  The  parable 
of  the  ten  virgins,  fol.  Lond.  1660,  &c.  is  a  rich  fund  of  expe- 
rimental and  practical  divinity ;  the  dress  is  coarse,  but  the 
strain  of  thought  is  extemely  animated  and  searching."  Dr. 
E.  Williams. 

Stailord  on  Rom.  vii.  8vo.  and  12mo.  enters  very  minutely 
into  the  Christian  experience  of  sin  and  grace."  Dr.  E.  Wil- 
liams, 

"  Taylors  (Dr.  Thomas)  Commentary  on  Titus,  fol.  Lond. 
1058,  is  the  production  of  a  sound  and  sensible  divine,  and  a 


NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  843 

very  useful  preacher,  one  who  had  penetrating  views  of  the 
human  heart  and  of  the  sacred  oracles."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Theophilacti  opera,  a  J.  F.  Bern  de  Rubeis,  et  Bonif.  Fi- 
nettio,  Gr.  et  Lat.  fol.  Ven,  1754-63,  4  vols.— «  Theophylact 
has  written  a  valuable  Comment  on  the  Gospels,  Acts,  and  St. 
Paul's  Epistles." — *  They  are  chiefly  extracts  from  Chrysos- 
tom,  and  are  of  considerable  use,  because  of  the  Greek  text  of 
the  New  Testament  quoted  in  them  ;  from  which  several  im- 
portant various  readings  have  been  extracted."  Dr.  A.  Clarke» 

Whitaker's  Commentary  on  the  Revelation  of  St.  John,  ac- 
companied with  historical  testimony  of  its  accomplishment. 
8vo.  1802.  "  Mr.  W.  is  well  knovvn  to  the  public,  and  his  wri- 
tings will  not  be  neglected."    Brit.  Crit.  vol.  xxiii.  p.  251. 

"  Wilson's  Commentary  on  Romans,  fol.  Lond.  1653,  is  in 
the  form  of  a  Dialogue,  and  abounds  with  judicious  distinctions 
and  practical  uses."    Dr.  E.  Williams. 

Woodhouse's  Translation  of  the  Apocalypse,  with  Notes 
critical  and  explanatory  ;  with  a  Dissertation  on  the  divine 
origin  of  the  book,  in  answer  to  the  objections  of  Professor 
Michaelis,  kc.  8vo.  180G.  "Our  author  has  placed  the  text 
of  the  Apocalypse  in  three  columns ;  the  Greek  of  Griesbach's 
edition  of  the  New  Testament,  a  translation  of  his  own  from 
it,  and  the  common  version.  His  translation  is  a  very  modest 
one,  and  does  not  depart  from  the  common  version,  but  when 
it  appears  necessary  to  the  sense.  The  figurative  language  of 
the  Revelation,  Mr.  W.  has  studied  with  deep  attention,  and 
expounded  with  accuracy  and  skill."  (Eel.  Rev.  vol.  2.  p.  922.) 
**  This  is  the  best  book  of  the  kind  I  have  ever  seen.  It  owes 
its  superiority  to  two  things :  1st.  The  author's  understanding 
the  apocalyptic  symbols  in  a  spiritual,  not  a  literal  sense. 
2dly.  To  the  care  he  has  taken  to  fix  the  precise  import  of 
those  symbols,  from  the  use  made  of  them  by  the  old  prophe- 
tical, and  other  writers  of  the  Old  and  New  Testament" 
Bishop  Hurd. 


0M  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

COMPILATIONS. 

Critici  Sacri  sive  annotata  doctissimorum  in  Vetus  et  Novum 
Testamentum,  Londini,  1660,  9  vols.  foi.  and,  with  additions, 
Amst.  1698,  12  vols.  fol.  With  this  are  connected  a  supple- 
ment, entitled,  Thesaurus  Theologo-Philologicus,  sive  Silloge 
Dissertationum  elegantiorum  ad  selectiora  Veteris  ac  Novi 
Testamenti  loca,  a  Theologis  Protestantibus  conscripturum. 
Amst.  1701,  2  vols.  fol.  and  Lud.  Capelli  Critica  Sacra,  ubi  ex 
variarum  lectionum  observatione  plurima  Scripturse  loca  expli- 
cantur.  Par.  1650  fol.  The  best  edition  of  the  Critici  Sacri, 
according  to  the  Bibliographical  Dictionary,  is  13  vols.  Amst. 
1698. — "This  work  was  intended  as  a  companion  for  the  Po- 
lyglott  Bible  published  by  Bishop  Walton,  in  1657.  It  con- 
tains a  vast  variety  of  valuable  materials  for  Critics,  Chronolo- 
gists,  &c. 

u  The  principal  Critics  on  the  Old  Testament,  contained  in 
the  foreign  Edition  of  this  great  Collection,  which  is  by  far 
the  most  complete,  are  the  following : — Sebastian  Munster, 
Paul  Fagius,  Francis  Vatablus,  Claudius  Badwellus,  Sebastian 
Castalio,  Isidore  Clarius,  Lucas  Brugensis,  Andrew  Masius, 
John  Drusius,  Sixtinus  Amama,  Simeon  de  Muis,  Philip  Co- 
durcus,  Rodolph  Raynus,  Francis  Forrerius,  Edward  Lively, 
David  Hceschelius,  Hugo  Grotius,  Christopher  Cartwright,  and 
John  Pricseus. 

Besides  the  above,  who  are  regular  Commentators  on  the 
Old  Testament,  there  are  various  important  Dissertations  and 
Tracts  on  the  principal  subjects  in  the  Law  and  Prophets,  by 
the  following  critics : — Joseph  Scaliger,  Lewis  CapelluB,  Mar- 
tin Helvicus,  Alberic  Gentilis,  Moses  bar  Cepha,  Christopher 
Helvicus,  John  Buteo,  Matthew  Hostus,  Francis  Moncseus, 
Peter  Pithceus,  George  Rittershusius,  Michael  Rothardus, 
Leo  Allatius,  Gasper  Varrerius,  William  Schickardus,  Au- 
gustin  Justinianus,  Bened.  Arias  Montanus,  Bon.  Corn.  Ber- 
tramus,  Peter  Cunceus,  Caspar  Waser.  and  Edward  Brere- 


NOTES  BY  THE  TR  ANSL  ATOR.  240 

On  the  New  Testament  the  following  Commentators  are 
included  : — Sebastian  Munster,  Laurentius  Valla,  James  Re- 
vius,  Desiderius  Erasmus,  Francis  Vatablus,  Sebastian  Casta- 
lio,  Isidore  Clarius,  Andrew  Masius,  Nicolas  Zegerus,  Lucas 
Brugensis,  Henry  Stephens,  John  Drusius,  Joseph  Scaliger, 
Isaac  Casaubon,  John  Camero,  James  Capellus,  Lewis  Cape- 
lius,  Otho  Gaultperius,  Abraham  Schultetus,  Hugo  Grotius, 
and  John  Pricceus. 

Dissertations  on  the  most  important  subjects  in  the  New 
Testament,  inserted  here,  were  written  by  Lewis  Capellus, 
Nicolas  Faber,  William  Klebilius,  Marquard  Freherus,  Arch- 
bishop Usher,  Matthew  Hostus,  I.  A.  Vander-Linden,  Clau- 
dius Salma9ius  under  the  feigned  name  of  Johannes  Simplicius* 
James  Gothofridus,  Philip  Gordurcus,  Abraham  Schultetus, 
William  Ader,  John  Drusius,  Jac.  Lopez  Stunica,  Desider. 
Erasmus,  Angelus  Caninius,  Peter  Pithceus,  Nicephorus  Pa- 
riarch  of  Constantinople,  Adriani  Isagoge  cum  notis  Dav.  Hces- 
chelii,  B.  C.  Bertram,  Anton.  Nebrissensis,  Nicholas  Fuller, 
Samuel  Petit,  John  Gregory,  Christ.  Cartwright,  John  Clop» 
penburg,  and  Peter  Dan.  Huet.  The  Thesaurus  Dissertation- 
urn  Elegantiorum,  published  as  a  Supplement  to  this  Work, 
by  Theod.  Hasreus  and  Conrad  Ikenius,  in  two  volumes  folio, 
contains  upwards  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  additional  writers. 
Such  a  constellation  of  learned  men  can  scarcely  be  equalled 
in  any  age  or  country."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

Poii  Synopsis  Criticorum  aliorumque  Sacrac  Scripture  In- 
terpretum.  Lond.  5  vols.  fol.  1669-1674.  "  Mr.  Matthew 
Poole,  conceiving  that  the  Critici  Sacri  might  be  made  more 
useful,  by  being  methodized ;  with  immense  labour  formed 
the  work  well  known  among  divines  by  the  title  of  Synopsis 
Criticorum,  a  general  view  of  the  Critics :  viz.  those  in  the 
nine  volumes  of  Critici  Sacri.  Here  the  Critics  no  longer  oc- 
cupy distinct  places  as  they  do  in  the  Critici  Sacri,  but  are  all 
consolidated,  one  general  comment  being  made  of  the  whole ; 
fhe  names  of  the  writers  being  referred  to  by  their  initials  in 
2  „  -«.- 


9*g  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 

the  margin.  To  the  Critics  above-named,  Mr.  Poole  has  added 
several  others  of  equal  note,  and  he  refers  also  to  the  most 
important  Versions,  both  ancient  and  modern.  In  point  of 
size,  the  work  of  Mr.  Poole  has  many  advantages  over  the 
Critici  Sacri ;  but  no  man  who  is  acquainted  with  both  works, 
will  ever  prefer  the  Synopsis  to  the  original."  (Dr.  A.  Clarke.) 
"  Poole's  Synopsis  is  very  useful,  especially  on  account  of  the 
short  view  it  gives  of  various  translations,  some  of  which  are 
very  scarce.  It  in  part  supersedes  the  necessity  of  having, 
what  is  yet  desirable,  a  Polyglott  Bible."     Dr.  Doddridge. 

The  Propriety  of  annexing  a  list  of  the  most  valuable  Com- 
mentaries to  a  volume  professing  to  be  a  Guide  to  the  Study 
of  the  Scriptures,  is  immediately  obvious.  The  Editor  has 
cited,  as  well  in  this  as  in  preceding  notes,  the  opinion  of  able 
critics  on  the  works  pointed  out ;  except  that,  in  a  few  in- 
stances where  other  sources  failed,  he  has  had  recourse  to  re- 
spectable reviews.  The  reader  will  observe,  that  the  larger 
proportion  of  critical  remarks  are  not  merely  recommenda- 
tions (for  which  a  few  words  had  been  sufficient)  but  were 
added,  after  the  example  of  Dr.  Doddridge  in  his  fourteenth 
lecture,  as  calculated  to  form  the  mind  to  a  more  profitable 
mode  of  studv. 


JiUTBS  BV"  THE  TRANSLATOR.  34/ 


CHAPTER  II. 


(a)  Augustini  Opera,  Benedictin.  11  vols.  fol.  Paris,  1679  to 
1700. — "  Best  edition.  There  are,  however,  two  editions  of 
this  work  under  the  same  date.  The  first  is  preferred,  and 
distinguished  by  the  preface  at  the  beginning  of  the  first  vo- 
lume. In  the  first  edition,  there  are  only  Jive  lines  of  the 
Preface  on  the  first  page  ;  in  the  second  edition,  there  are 
more."    Dr.  A.  Clarke. 

(b)  See  our  author's  Treatise — "  Christ  the  Sum  and  Sub- 
stance of  the  Scriptures." 


CHAPTER  IV 


(a)  St  It  is  not  enough  for  the  physician  to  inveigh  against 
the  malignity  or  danger  of  a  disease,  but  his  chief  care  must 
be  to  direct  to  the  remedy  and  cure  of  it ;  and  for  this,  the  pre-, 
scription  must  be  varied  according  to  the  several  kinds  of  of- 
fences.— It  should  be  a  special  care,  to  apply  lenitives  and 
cordials,  where  the  condition  of  the  patient  requires  it,  as  well 
as  corrosives  and  purgatives. 

"The  matter  of  this  should  be  various,  according  to  the 
different  states  of  men,  whether  their  sufferings  be  Outward 
or  Inward.  Outward,  in  respect  of  sickness  of  body,  loss 
cf  friends,  estate,  credit,  peace,  and  quiec,  &c— IffWABDj  ill 
respect  of  doubts  &*va    Bishop  Wilkins. 


&tt  NOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR. 


APPENDIX. 


CHAPTER  I. 


(a)  Of  Franzius'  Work  here  alluded  to^tlie  celebrated 
Glassius  speaks  in  the  following  high  terms,  when  treating  of 
the  best  method  of  interpreting  the  Scriptures.  "  Ego  sane 
nullum  tempus  felicius  et  fructuosius  (prcesens  quod  negotum 
spectat,)  collocasse  me  palam  pronteor,  quam  quod  in  diligenti 
integri  libri  illius  lectione  et  relectione,  cam  timore  Domini, 
insumi.  Deus  viro  tanto,  pro  tarn  salubri  labore,  hie  et  seter- 
tum  benedicat." 

(b)  Bernardi  Opera,  a  Joan.  Mabillonio,  JVIon.  S.  Mauri, 
fol,  1&90,  9  vols.     ««  Best  edition." 


CHAPTER  IV. 


(a)  Bona?  (Johannes  Cardinalis)  Opera  Omni2.  Paris,  1677, 
S  vols.  8vo.  ex  recognitione  Reb.  Sala,  August.  Taurin,  e  Ty- 
pographia  Regia,  1747,  fol. 

ANALYSIS  OF  THE  EPISTLE  TO  TUB 
EPHESIAJYS. 

(a)  "  Paul  has  given  us  the  substance  of  divine  truth  m  » 
thivefold  wav  x*- 


XOTES  BY  THE  TRANSLATOR.  249 

*  1.  In  a  catechetical  manner:  that  is,  by  the  mere  arti- 
cles, without  copious  proofs  and  refutations  ;  as  in  the  Epistle 
to  the  Ephesians.  2.  By  a  fuller  exposition,  with  arguments, 
refutations,  &c  added  by  way  of  explanation  ;  as  in  the  Epis- 
tle to  the  Galatians.  3.  By  a  complete  consideration  and  ex- 
position of  the  several  parts  of  doctrine,  as  in  the  Epistle  to 
the  Romans.  These  points  merit  attention,  because,  even 
subsequently  to  the  days  of  the  apostle,  sometimes  the  shorter, 
and  sometimes  the  more  elaborate  Epistles  have  been  cited, 
accordingly  as  seasons  and  circumstances  have  required/' 
Chemnitius.    Author's  Note. 

ANALYTICAL  INTRODUCTION  TO  THE 
^BEOLOSSLIjYS. 

(«)  "  It  is  probable  that  the  apostle  only  dictated  this  Epis- 
tle. So  we  find  that  Tertius  wrote  the  Epistle  addressed  to 
the  Romans,  Rom.  xvi.  22.  It  appears  that  Paul  himself  only 
added  the  last  words."    Author**  Note. 

(b)  **  It  was  perhaps  at  this  time  that  Onesimus  carried 
Paul's  letter  to  his  maste*-  Philemon  ;  Phil.  12 — 15,  and  CoL 
iv.  9  ;  unless  it  be  supposed  that  he  was  despatched  to  Phile- 
mon first,  and  afterwards  to  the  Colossian  church."    Ibid. 


THE  END. 


